Common Sense Media Review
By Carrie Kingsley
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Fish-out-of-water laughs with heart and mystery.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
A FISHBOY NAMED ... SASHIMI introduces Sashimi, a fish head with a kid's body who is so determined to blend in on land that he sneaks into an elementary school and pretends he's human. But in the seaside town he's made his new home, people are already on edge about a mysterious creature they call the "Beast of Barnacle Bay." As Sashimi tries to navigate class rules, friendship drama, and the basic challenge of staying hydrated while being a literal fish out of water, the townspeople's fear ramps up. There are lots of misunderstandings as Sashimi tries to figure out who he can trust and how to protect himself while keeping his new friends safe.
Is It Any Good?
This splashy page-turner is a witty, colorful graphic novel about a half-boy/half-fish that balances big comedy with genuine empathy, kindness, and friendship. With Dan Santat's skill with visual gags, clever side notes, and just the right amount of gross-out humor, A Fishboy Named ... Sashimi helps young readers think about what happens when a community labels someone as "dangerous" just because they're different. As the friendship at the center of this silly premise evolves, the action is easy to follow for new graphic novel readers, making it a strong pick for emerging readers. This is also a great read-aloud for adults who are happy to read fun characters in different voices.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how quickly rumors spread in A Fishboy Named ... Sashimi. What are some kind ways to check a story before you pass it on?
When Sashimi is trying to fit in, he makes choices that get him into trouble. Why is honesty sometimes hard?
Have you ever been the new kid in a situation? How did you feel? What are some ways you can help new people feel welcome?
How does empathy help Sashimi and his friends? Why do kids sometimes have a hard time being kind and empathetic?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Dan Santat
- Genre : Graphic Novel
- Topics : Adventures , Animals ( Fish , Ocean Creatures ) , Friendship , Pirates
- Character Strengths : Empathy , Perseverance
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Roaring Brook Press
- Publication date : April 14, 2026
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 6 - 10
- Number of pages : 160
- Available on : Paperback, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : May 13, 2026
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