1, 2, 3, Jump!

March 1, 2019
Playful encouragement for new swimmers.The text's second-person address to the unnamed protagonist (a child who's nervous about starting swim lessons) instructs: "The first thing you need to do is put on your suit." An accompanying illustration shows the pigtailed tot in a suit and tie with a top hat and loafers. "No, not that type of suit. A swimsuit, silly!" comes the clarification. Once the child has changed into a red, girl's swimsuit, the text follows as the protagonist nervously listens to the swim teacher's instructions. The other children in the class don't share the protagonist's worries, and they happily follow directions while the protagonist hangs back, too scared even to dip a toe in the pool or to blow bubbles, let alone jump into the water. Words and pictures humorously play with meaning, as when the child blows soap bubbles with a wand rather than getting in the pool to blow bubbles in the water. Throughout, the cartoon illustrations amplify the humor, and translucent washes evoke the watery pool setting. By the book's end, and after lots of patient encouragement, the protagonist is ready to "1...2...3... / JUMP!" into the water, where all the students get to try out flippers as they swim around together. The protagonist appears white, with long, brown hair; the teacher appears black, and the other three children at the lesson have varied skin tones, with two appearing to be children of color.A splash! (Picture book. 2-4)

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May 1, 2019

PreS-Gr 2-An unnamed narrator instructs a young girl in the proper ways to approach swimming lessons. As the child gets ready, the narrator guides her through the various beginning stages of swimming, including choosing the right swimsuit and proper swim etiquette. The text appears to follow the character above and below the water line and gives readers the illusion of swimming along. Bold and large fonts effectively emphasize important phrases. White space is used to portray all areas outside the pool. This directs readers' attention to the water, where most of the action takes place. The characters are drawn with rounded figures giving the book a playful look and feel. They can be seen floating, swimming, and merrily kicking throughout. The book changes perspectives often. This notion of movement echoes the vantage point of an excited child moving in and alongside a pool. VERDICT A great way to encourage children to both explore the world around them and incorporate new activities into their daily lives. Dive right in.-Deanna Smith, Pender County Public Library, NC

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