Fish Named Glub, A - Hardcover

Bar-el, Dan

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1554538122 ISBN 13: 9781554538126

Publisher: Kids Can Press, 2015

Synopsis

For every one of his questions, Glub instantly receives an answer via the variety of conversations he overhears, as the colourful people who frequent the diner go about the business of their lives. At the same time, all these people, including Foster, are finding some answers of their own as they look back at Glub swimming around in his bowl. Rich yet accessible collage-style illustrations by Jose Bisaillon warmly invite readers into Glub's world on each of the spreads of this unique book, while the text alternates between the poetry-inspired thoughts of Glub and the lively dialogue of the humans. What award-winning children's author and storyteller Dan Bar-el manages to do in this moving and optimistic book is to present two different layers within one story. There is the delightful, simple narrative about what happens to Glub and the people in the diner - a fun, humorous read-aloud, perfect for storytime. But there is also a more reflective and poignant tale here of love, self-discovery and hope, which provide an opportunity for deeper reading, understanding and critical thinking, and which would make an excellent resource for a character education lesson on dealing with feelings.

About this title

Review:

... this story will appeal to older children who grasp the power of dreams, hopes, and memories, while younger children will enjoy the antics of Glub and the people he meets during his time at the diner.--School Library Journal

While young readers may not be concerned with adult hopes and despairs, Bar-el's lyrical prose and Glub's underdog (underfish?) triumph offer entertainment for those who aren't actively wondering what they're meant to be doing with their lives.--Publishers Weekly

Glub poses his existential questions and various visitors to the diner provide answers. Bit by bit, Glub's existence grows more enriched ... Glub discovers a very unusual talent. It's a gift that brings happiness to others, but leaves Glub still feeling alone --- until one day, Foster, Evelyn and her mom test the waters together.--The Montreal Gazette

Bisaillon creates gorgeous mixed-media tapestries upon which Bar-el's words dance. Her quirky and humorous images do a great job keeping the tone light and providing movement ... This is a story that reinforces the comforting notion that you don't have to be big to make a difference.--Quill & Quire

Artfully told, the story's melancholy edge is melted by the connections made between characters. The collage-style art charms with its childlike appeal that helps put the book right at the reader's level. This is a book to return to, with nuance adding to each reading.--Booklist

A story that is as delightful in its individual parts as it is in its sweeping theme of dreams rediscovered and the small push of self-belief needed to follow them.--Kirkus Reviews

With insight and sensitivity, Dan Bar-el writes of the importance of finding one's place in the world and the quest to follow one's aspirations. Through his perceptive prose, one begins to empathize with the patrons ... Josée Bisaillon's mixed-media illustrations are quirky, fun and interesting.--Canadian Children's Book News

About the Author:

Dan Bar-el is an award-winning children's author, educator and storyteller. His writing includes both chapter books and picture books. Dan currently travels across the country, visiting schools and libraries to present his books, give storytelling performances and lead different writing workshops. Back in Vancouver, he teaches creative writing courses for children through the organization Creative Writing for Children Society (CWC). He shares his life with artist and goldsmith Dominique Br chault and Sasha, the smartest and cutest cat in the known universe.As a young girl, Jos e loved drawing cats and houses. She really enjoyed school and always returned home full of stories to tell (and, of course, to draw!). She liked being in the classroom so much that she pursued her education all the way to university, where she studied graphic design. It was there that she fell in love with the occupation of illustrator.

About this edition

• Publisher: Kids Can Press
• Publication date: 2015
• ISBN 10: 1554538122
• ISBN 13: 9781554538126
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 32