A first encounter with the ocean is unsettling for the child at the centre of this story, but paddling in a lake and then a river filled with friendly fish changes their perception, so that, ‘Maybe I’ll go in next time.’
Mama is there to share books about the oceans and offer reassurance that the water will still be there when the time is right. And sure enough, that days comes and with it a lifetime of fun in the water. The text is quiet and contemplative, calming against the blues and greens of the water-filled scenes.
This will be a lovely book to share and will be particularly appreciated by children apprehensive about trying something new. The message that it’s fine to go at your own pace is an important one and delivered clearly and sensitively.
Reviewed by Andrea Reece Andrea Reece has spent almost her entire working life in children’s books, first as publisher, latterly as consultant, project manager and critic. More reviews by Andrea Reece
About I Will Swim Next Time
The cool on my toes felt kind of nice. As Mama held me tight, I thought: Maybe I'll go in next time.
The cool on my toes felt kind of nice. As Mama held me tight, I thought: Maybe I'll go in next time.
A child's first encounter with the sea leaves them feeling small and scared. What could be hiding in the dark depths below? When the family visits a lake and a river, the child's fear of water gradually starts to ebb as curiosity begins to flow. But playing in the water still doesn't feel right. Mama says there is no rush to try swimming, and that the water will wait. Maybe next time?
This gently powerful story about taking your time and listening to yourself, with lyrical words from Emily Joof, reminds us that it's okay for progress to be gradual. Bold and dynamic illustrations from Matilda Ruta bring the journey to life with warmth and vibrancy. A perfect book for any child who is feeling nervous about new experiences.
'A wonderfully gentle approach to children trying new things. [ ] Featuring vibrantly colourful illustrations by Matilda Ruta, this is a great book to share with any child that might be about to embark on the unknown.' - Scottish Book Trust
Author
About Emily Joof
Emily Joof is an African-diaspora author, education expert and mum. She writes children's books and stories with a focus on inclusion and diversity which have been translated into Swedish, French and Wolof. Born in Nigeria, Emily now divides her time between the Gambia, the UK and Sweden. I Will Swim Next Time was inspired by experiences with her daughter.
The cool on my toes felt kind of nice. As Mama held me tight, I thought: Maybe I'll go in next time.
The LoveReading4Kids Editorial Team have read and reviewed I Will Swim Next Time and determined it is suitable for children aged 3-6 years old
I Will Swim Next Time features in the following genres: Featured Books for 5+ readers, Recommendations, PSHE: Self-Awareness, Self-Esteem and Wellbeing, Personal Social Health Economic (PSHE), Children’s, Teenage and Educational, Stories about Family and Friends, Children's and Young Adult Fiction, Featured Books for 3+ readers
Paperback, Hardback. £7.19, down from the £7.99 cover price. In Stock.
I Will Swim Next Time was written by Emily Joof and published by Floris Books
I Will Swim Next Time has 28 pages
£7.19, reduced from £7.99. In Stock.
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