Max Velthuijs, Frog and the Stranger

Andersen Press, 9780862646257 | Suggested age range: 3-5

When a stranger turns up, Pig and Duck check him out and immediately dismiss him as a dirty, ignorant good-for-nothing who'll bring nothing but trouble. Kind Frog goes to find out for himself and discovers the newly arrived rat to be charming, hard-working and an interesting companion. Can Frog persuade the others? Luckily Rat quickly shows what a good contribution he can make and everyone is very sad when he packs up his camp and moves on. The wider implication of the message is obvious and it is carried attractively in gorgeous and wholly sympathetic illustrations.