A Bargain for Frances is an illustrated early-reader story about friendship, fairness and the consequences of an unequal deal. Frances the badger is tempted when her friend Thelma offers to sell her a tea set, but the bargain is not as honest as it first appears. Hurt and determined not to be fooled again, Frances begins thinking carefully about trust, self-respect and how to respond when a friend takes advantage of her. Russell Hoban explores a familiar childhood conflict without reducing it to a simple lesson, while Lillian Hoban’s expressive illustrations capture the characters’ pride, disappointment and quiet cleverness. Written with clear sentences, gentle humour and lively dialogue, the story invites young readers to consider whether winning a bargain is worth damaging a friendship—and what Frances will choose to do next.
Author: Russell Hoban
Publisher: Scholastic Book Services
Year published: 1970
Number of pages: 62
Recommended age: 4–8
For reading aloud: ages 4–5 and up
For independent reading in English: approximately ages 6–9, depending on the child’s reading level