The Girl Who Became a Fish

The Girl Who Became a Fish Synopsis

Ita is afraid of lots of things. She’s afraid of talking to her classmates at her new school. She’s afraid of walking through her new town. But most of all she is afraid of water. When one day she realises the river in her new town turns her into a fish, she is forced to face up to her fears. In doing so, can she bring her family together again?

Deftly exploring themes of change, the notion of home and tackling the topic of fear for younger readers, this is another heart-warming and beautifully-written early reader by Polly Ho-Yen, filled with charming artwork by Sojung Kim-McCarthy.

Polly was inspired by her own love of wild swimming for this new story. She said: “The feeling of freedom and aliveness I get from being in cold water in nature is just the best! When I was thinking about a child who is facing her fears, I imagined her taking to the water and experiencing that same vital feeling I love; it felt like a natural fit.” This motif sees Ita’s fear turn to joy, celebration and freedom with a touch of magic, within an uplifting and inspiring story arc.

Polly said: “What I've loved about the response to The Boy Who Grew a Tree has been the number of parents and teachers who've been in touch to say their child or student saw themselves as Timi. In The Girl Who Became a Fish, I hope to reach more young people who may see themselves as a little on the outside of things, and who can learn to celebrate their wonderful individuality.”