Copyright Date:
2023
Edition Date:
2023
Release Date:
02/07/23
Illustrator:
Jose, Gladys,
Pages:
1 volume (unpaged)
ISBN:
1-534-47707-1
ISBN 13:
978-1-534-47707-0
Dewey:
E
LCCN:
2022007397
Dimensions:
25 cm.
Language:
English
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews
The sequel to The Library Fish (2022) lets little ones know that reading is for everyone-including our aquatic friends.Library Fish has a satisfying life in a bowl on the desk of librarian Mr. Hughes. She loves watching children browse the shelves, but her favorite moment is storytime. When Mr. Hughes shares a book about a dog who learns to read, Library Fish is inspired. After the library closes for the night, she emerges from her bowl (a bubble of water securely on her head) and begins to learn her ABCs: "Hour after hour, night after night, she made sure she knew every letter and each sound it made. F for fish was one of her favorites. Z-z-z-z's were always welcome after a long night's work." Capucilli emphasizes the hard work that often goes into acquiring this skill. The story might be a little too long and a little too quiet for many new readers, as the resolution after the protagonist masters reading-Library Fish deciding to read a book to her friend the Bookmobile-is implied rather than seen, and there's little fanfare for the accomplishment. Many children will enjoy the colorful digital illustrations depicting an endearingly expressive Library Fish and a diverse group of patrons who frequent the library. Ultimately, though, it may be librarians and educators who appreciate this story more than the intended audience. Mr. Hughes presents as Black. (This book was reviewed digitally.)Amusing if somewhat restrained. (Picture book. 5-8)
Library Fish returns in this charming picture book about the unusually literary fish learning to do what everyone around her loves—read!
Library Fish is very happy in her bowl on Mr. Hughes the librarian’s desk. From there, she listens to story time and watches Mr. Hughes teach children the alphabet. He says the alphabet is made of letters, letters make sounds, blending those sounds together makes words, and words make stories.
Library Fish wants to read, too! She starts jumping out of her bowl to practice when the library closes at night. Can Library Fish become a reader all on her own?