The Rainbow Fish
By Marcus Pfister
The Story
The most beautiful fish in the ocean has shimmering silver scales but no friends, until he learns to share what makes him special.
Why It's Special
For the littlest ones just starting to grasp what sharing even means, this board book turns that big lesson into something they can see sparkle on every page.
- Big idea: Being admired isn't the same as being loved — real friendship comes from giving, not just being looked at.
- Vibes: Gentle, glittering, and quietly reassuring.
Perfect For Kids Who
- are drawn to shiny, foil-stamped pictures
- are working on learning to share
- enjoy simple stories with a clear feeling
- respond well to calm, repetitive read-alouds
Ask Your Little Reader
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think the other fish felt when the Rainbow Fish wouldn't share his shiny scales?
- Real-life connection: Can you think of something of yours you could share with a friend?
- Story & noticing: Which scale on the Rainbow Fish is your favorite color?
- Imagination: If you had shiny, sparkly scales like the Rainbow Fish, what color would you want them to be?
