Fred is a quiet boy who often plays alone and always brings a red flannel shirt with him to school. Over time the other students nickname him Flannel Fred. Finally, Jack asks Fred why he always brings the red flannel shirt to school. After making a bunch of excuses, Fred tells Jack that the flannel shirt had belonged to Fred's father who has passed away.

Jack, touched by what Fred has told him, discusses a plan for something special for Fred with his dad. Over the weekend, they make phone calls. When Fred comes to school on Monday and gets off the bus, he can't believe his eyes.

Flannel Fred is a touching, beautifully written rhyming story about the importance of empathy for and kindness to others, despite their differences. Elementary age children, especially those who have lost a parent whether through death, divorce, or illness, will find comfort in knowing they are not alone in their grief and sadness.