Otter: Let's Go Swimming! (I Can Read! My First: Shared Reading)

PreS-Gr 1--Otter is going to the beach! She's eager to learn to swim, but once there, fear gets in the way. Otter says that her stuffed toys are afraid to swim, but readers will know that it is Otter herself who needs the encouragement. Fortunately, Otter Keeper (her human friend) is there to help, and soon Otter doesn't want to leave. Young readers will relate to Otter's fear of the water, reflected in her worried expressions. While the sentences are somewhat perfunctory, the simple vocabulary and repetition of words, as well as the large black font, white space, and colorful drawing-style illustrations, are spot-on for an early reader. VERDICT With its relatable main character and illustrations that match the simple text, this early reader is a solid addition to the series.--Ramarie Beaver, Plano Public Library System, TX