Otter: Let's Go Swimming! (My First I Can Read)

Otter: Let's Go Swimming! (My First I Can Read)

Otter—the irrepressible picture book character sure to be adored by fans of Llama Llama—learns how to swim. Otter: Let's Go Swimming! is a My First I Can Read book, which means it’s perfect for shared reading with a child. Read about more of Otter’s adventures in I Am Otter, Otter in Space, Otter Goes to School, Otter Loves Halloween!, Otter Loves Easter!, Otter: Oh No, Bath Time!, Otter: The Best Job Ever!, and Otter: Hello, Sea Friends! PreS-Gr 1—Otter is going to the beach! She's eager to learn to swim, but once there, fear gets in the way. Otter says that her stuffed toys are afraid to swim, but readers will know that it is Otter herself who needs the encouragement. Fortunately, Otter Keeper (her human friend) is there to help, and soon Otter doesn't want to leave. Young readers will relate to Otter's fear of the water, reflected in her worried expressions. While the sentences are somewhat perfunctory, the simple vocabulary and repetition of words, as well as the large black font, white space, and colorful drawing-style illustrations, are spot-on for an early reader. VERDICT With its relatable main character and illustrations that match the simple text, this early reader is a solid addition to the series.—Ramarie Beaver, Plano Public Library System, TX “As in Otter’s previous books, Garton’s wry sense of humor and richly detailed artwork generate a steady steam of laughs.” - Publishers Weekly Praise for Otter: Oh No, Bath Time!: “The first Otter book in early reader format, this installment is a resoundingly successful transition. The short, concise sentences are ideal for novice readers, and genuine humor results from pairing the images with the simple text. Garton’s soft illustrations have a gentle, soothing feel and represent a child-centric perspective. Otter is a truly charming protagonist who infuses these stories with just a bit of mischief and plenty of humor in the mix. A delightful addition to early reader shelves.” - School Library Journal “Another “Aw”-inspiring adventure with Otter.” - School Library Journal “This title is bound to please established fans and to cultivate some new ones.” - Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books Praise for Otter Loves Halloween!: “Garton pairs his charming story with funny details in the bright digital illustrations that only make a great book even better. This one’s a real treat.” - Kirkus Reviews “The joyful chaos of everyday life with a child (or otter) permeates Garton’s cartoons and should keep kids laughing from start to finish.” - Publishers Weekly “Another wonderful outing with Otter, this latest is also a great way to encourage youngsters who are nervous about celebrating Halloween to get excited about the holiday.” - School Library Journal Praise for Otter Goes to School: “Garton’s Otter is adorably roly-poly and just realistic enough to differentiate her from her stuffed pupils, and her droll expressions are spot-on.What adventure will Otter have next?” - Kirkus Reviews Praise for I Am Otter: “A bright and hilarious escapade about an otter who, bored while her owner’s at work, opens a toast restaurant. Hysterical.” - Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “This fully realized picture book captures warmth, imagination, and playfulness in the character of Otter.” - School Library Journal “Good-natured fun.” - Booklist “Garton’s debut picture book does a bang-up job of introducing Otter. There’s a lovely dimensionality and sense of physical comedy in Garton’s digitally created artwork. Combined with Otter’s winning brand of self-importance, it’s plenty to propel her into future adventures.” - Publishers Weekly Praise for Otter in Space: “From “mishun control” to launch and liftoff, Garton’s bright, shiny digital illustrations are full of sparkle and humor. Lively, giggle-producing proof that imaginative play is just as good as getting to the moon.” - Kirkus Reviews (starred review) Sam Garton began writing and illustrating stories about Otter and her world on the blog I Am Otter: The Unheard Ramblings of a Modern Day Domestic Otter in 2009. He lives in London. He met a real otter once. It bit him. You can visit Otter at www.iamotter.co.uk.