Some of my favorite childhood memories were cuddled up with my Dad, reading a story. This was an EVERY night occurrence and something I am so thankful for. So it's no wonder that with my own children, I am committed to offering these same memories for my own babes - albeit a little harder with four grabby hands lunging for the book.
I've decided that I'd like to share some of my favorites with my readers in a series called "Our Favorite Tales." Up first is Pout-Pout Fish written by Deborah Diesen and illustrated by Daniel Hannah.I first ordered this book without much thought from the Scholastic Book Club but am so thrilled I did! My absolute favorite thing about this story is the sing-songy rhythm created by the terminal rhyme of each verse. Great alliteration makes it a joy to read out loud. I have so much fun with it that I'm not sure who likes it more - my kids or me!
The plot line centers on the Pout-Pout Fish who can't seem to shake a bad case of the grumps. He seems pretty settled in that being "just the way I am" despite numerous interventions with friends who recommend that he "turn that frown upside down." Mr. Fish is always polite though in his declines of advice. His catch phrase throughout is "blub, bluub, bluuub" which is great to vocalize when reading out loud. Another great line is "Hey Mr. Fish with your daily scaly scowl, I wish you wouldn't greet us with a grimace and a growl."
I won't spoil the surprising and unexpected ending for you as it warmed my heart in the best kind of way and I'm excited for you to experience it for yourself. I will say though, that someone interesting comes into Mr. Fish's life that changes his whole way of thinking. A fantastic happy ending!
I'd really recommend this book for all ages - from birth to six. A board book edition is also available which might make a great choice for the littlest readers. With sweet sing-songy rhyme, adorable pictures and a truly climatic plot (for a kids book) this one is a top choice!
If you want to catch a preview of all the things I love about this book, listen along to Gordon True's youtube version, set along to music. I told you it had great rhyme and verse!
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