“The Not Very Merry Pout-Pout Fish” by Deborah Diesen. (Book Review)

A certain gloomy fish is back in action this Christmas! This lap around, Mr. Fish is not having an easy time shopping for all his aquatic pals for their holiday party. “A gift should be big, And a gift should be bright, And a gift should be perfect, Guaranteed to bring delight.” But all the stores are closed, all the items he’s interested in are sold out. Should he skip their holiday party since he could not find the perfect gifts for all his friends? Thank goodness his female, fishy friend Miss Shimmer pay him a visit (Spoiler alert – it’s obvious their love connection is still going strong!). She convinces him it’s only the thought that counts when gift giving, but she’s feeling crafty, so she helps him create the perfect handmade gifts for the gang! “If you want to give some presents, It is not too late to start, For the best gifts of all, Come straight from the heart”.

In keeping with the other charming illustrations from the series, Dan Hanna has packed some holiday fun into every page. Dolly loves all the detail in the colorful illustrations; We like to pick out the starfish, octopus and seahorses. Author Deborah Diesen’s rhymes are just as fun as ever and you’ll find yourself sing-songing the whole book through! The message is one that everyone could use some reminding of as the holidays approach and there is chaos with shopping and crowds and hunting down the perfect gifts. The most precious gift of all is time with families. A great way to spend time together is to cuddle up with a good book…..! Your little one will love to swim along with the Pout Pout Fish this winter, so be sure to pick this one for a holiday gift – it’s sure to make a splash!

illustrations by Dan Hanna

Title: The Not Very Merry Pout-Pout Fish
Author: Deborah Diesen
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
Publisher: Macmillan
Release Date: September 8, 2015
Pages: 32