 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Swimmy
- By Leo Lionni
- Genre: Picture Book
Common Sense Media says
Simple, life-affirming book about relationships.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this book will keep kids engrossed from the sad beginning to the triumphant ending, enjoying the simple but dramatic plot, intriguing text, and dreamlike illustrations.
What's the story?
Swimmy is the sole survivor of an encounter between a school of small fish and a tuna. When he meets a new group of his kind hiding among the rocks, he is determined to hatch a plan so they can safely explore their world. This visually rich, life-affirming book teaches kids that relationships matter.
Is it any good?
SWIMMY succeeds in conveying an important moral lesson with a sense of grace. There's nothing heavy-handed here, just a simple tale about a humble little fish who is passionate about life. Kids learn about perseverance, cooperation, and the power of unity.
The watercolor prints are vivid, and the lyrical language has a wide appeal, lulling the youngest children, challenging new readers, and keeping older kids (and even adults) engaged. Creatures come alive through descriptions like that of a lobster "who walked about like a water-moving machine." Even the seaweed seems magical. This is a little picture book that feels as big as the sea. It may very well become one of your family's favorites.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about Swimmy's experiences. What important things about life and relationships does he learn? How does he end up learning these things?
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AGE
Little Fish Teaches Big Lesson
Swimmy shows the other fish how each can have a better life when they all work together. The lesson is taught simply and without preaching. Adults and children alike will love the watercolor illustrations in this Caldecott Honor book.
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| Author: | Leo Lionni |
| Illustrator: | Leo Lionni |
| Book type: | Fiction |
| Genre: | Picture Book |
| Publication date: | April 12, 1973 |
| Number of pages: | 28 |
| Paperback price: | $5.99 |
| Publisher's recommended age(s): | 2 - 4 |
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