Published: 16th October 2017
Publisher: Phaidon Press
Illustrator: Jean Gourounas
Pages: 40
Format: Picture Book
★ ★ ★ ★ – 4 Stars
Join the cumulative cast of polar characters as they gather, chatter, wager guesses, and aggravate Penguin until…they hear something from below the ice!
I love this book; it is simple, clever, has a nice twist, and is delightful and funny.
Penguin is ice fishing and soon becomes the subject of curiosity by those around her. The expression on penguin’s face can be interpreted as annoyance, but even if she is bothered by the interruptions and noise, she doesn’t say much. It’s the onlookers and busybodies who query what’s going on.
It doesn’t take long for the act of fishing becomes a group activity as everyone starts discussing why the fish aren’t biting, with each newcomer adding to the discussion. Even the move from discussing that penguin is fishing to they all are fishing is fantastic. Onlookers are baffled, perplexed, and flummoxed and penguin continues to fish.
The gradual build of onlookers is so enjoyable. From one rabbit, to a walrus, to a whole host of characters, it is made better by penguin’s inaction. This staggered arrival works in companion with the illustrations as well, the layout complimenting the story. The characters move from left to right across the double page, as the new character arrives on the left, they then join the others on the right to observe.
The banter between everyone is great, it’s simple but effective. Short sharp humour that uses repetition but also a smidge absurd. The payoff it brilliant. What you think the penguin is shushing everyone for isn’t the reason you think and the reveal is delightful. Truly a highly enjoyable read.
You can purchase Something’s Fishy via the following
