Module 2- SLIS 5420

Swimmy
by Leo Lionni

Lionni, Leo. (1964). Swimmy. New York, NY: Knopf, distributed by Random House.

Summary

In a vast ocean of wonders, Swimmy finds that he is different from the other fish in his school. One day, after all his companions are gobbled up by another large fish, Swimmy is all alone to explore the sea. As he travels, he discovers amazing creatures and beautiful things he never knew existed before. When he encounters a new school of fish that are much like his old friends, he must help them find a way to face their fears and explore with him.

Impressions

I really enjoyed the storyline in this book. It is one of reinforcing the idea that it's okay to be different and that we all have our own unique and valuable qualities. It also presents and reinforces the fact that anyone can be a hero, regardless of size, color, gender, etc. I tend to have a strong connection with these types of books, and this one was no exception. The illustrations are beautiful and soft, with a bit of an abstract feel to them. I found them very soothing and calm.

Reviews

Swimmy, the little black fish and lone survivor in a school of red ones, devises an ingenious scheme for protecting a new school of fish friends. Lionni has illustrated his clever story with a series of astonishingly beautiful seascapes full of undulating watery nuances of shape, pattern, and color.

Swimmy. (1991). Horn Book Magazine, 67(5), 618.

An exquisite picture book. A little fish, the lone survivor of a school of fish swallowed by a tuna, devises a plan to camouflage himself and his new companions.

Swimmy. (2009). School Library Journal, 55(4), 30.

Suggestions for Use

This would be a wonderful book to use with students for a lesson about differences between us, whether they are cultural, racial, socio-economical, or physical. Begin by having a discussion with the students about the kinds of differences we see among our group. Let them give suggestions and make a list. Read the story and then go back and consult the list, making connections between the story and the suggestions they provided. End the lesson by reinforcing that although we are different, we are all valuable and can contribute to society, just like Swimmy.