The Library Fish Learns to Read

November 15, 2022
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)

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January 1, 2023

K-Gr 3-Library Fish's bowl is located on the circulation desk of a busy public library. From this prominent location she can observe who is visiting and what is happening. Her favorite part of the day is when the librarian, Mr. Hughes, reads a story to the young patrons. One day he shares a tale of a dog who learns to read. Library Fish is enthralled and motivated. Determined to learn to read, she employs everything she has learned from Mr. Hughes. Every night, her head encased in a bubble filled with water, she embarks on a self-taught quest. Starting with the alphabet, progressing to phonics, and using context clues, she teaches herself to read. Upon becoming a reader, she hints that she will now use her new skills and teach her friend the bookmobile the joy of reading also. The appealing digitally rendered illustrations portray a diverse group of library patrons. Mr. Hughes, a male librarian with brown skin, serves as a great role model. Library Fish, while a fantastical creature, should prove relatable to young students for her tenacity, curiosity, and good nature. VERDICT Describing the process of learning to read and the joy found in storytelling, this book will find its way into every niche and nook for sharing with students in a school library setting.-Lynne Stover

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