Fred Gets Dressed is a modern story about a child finding the outfit that fits that day’s expression. As a wild, independent, and typical kid, Fred, runs around naked. Then decides to try an experiment with their parents clothing coming to an understanding what outfit works best. It is an obvious story, simple and sweet. The “middle ground” with the liking or not category would be: “I did not hate it but did not love it.” There will be several “OMG! Loooooved it!” (Said in a Joanne Worley squeal). And of course, several dislikes. It probably will not change anyone’s opinion about non-gender conforming outfits. It will not change the world. But Peter Brown tells the story and tells it as only Brown can. The illustrations are not flashy, but they are solid, but not harsh. The colors are warm and cool simultaneously. The details are minimal but not sparse.
It is a book that just is. It is perfect for June and Pride Month, or for any month. It would work well as a read-aloud story to a group or individual child. Not overly preachy, but there is no question what theme is going to be/the theme is. All ages can enjoy this book, the younger ones can read the illustrations, the older ones listen to the average length story, and early readers (with a bit of help) can read the book solo. It is in a picture book size, which might turn off a few of the 6 to 8 crowd, but it works on multiple levels.
I admit, I was in the “did not love nor did not hate” category. However, it is a book that you should at least take out of your local library and give at least a one-time read to decide if this is a keeper for your library. Would make a nice gift for your child’s classroom or school library as well.