Swimmy
By Leo Lionni
The Story
A small black fish is the lone survivor of his school after a larger fish attacks — until he finds a new school of little red fish and teaches them to swim together as one giant shape to scare off enemies.
Why It's Special
For the kid who feels different from everyone else in the room, Swimmy is proof that being the odd one out can end up being exactly what the group needs.
- Big idea: Being different isn't a weakness — it's often the very thing that saves everyone.
- Vibes: quiet, painterly, and thoughtful, with a swell of teamwork triumph at the end
Perfect For Kids Who
- enjoy ocean and sea-creature stories
- are working on feeling okay about being different
- respond well to quiet, artistic illustrations over busy scenes
- like to talk about teamwork and helping others
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & problem-solving: How did Swimmy help the little red fish stay safe from bigger fish?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think Swimmy felt when he was the only one left from his school?
- Imagination: If you and your friends swam together like Swimmy's school, what shape would you make?
- Real-life connection: Can you think of a time working together with friends helped solve a problem?
- Noticing details: What did you notice about the colors and pictures in the sea Swimmy swims through?












