Review Detail

Fish Feud! by Kevin Sherry is the first in a new graphic novel series called Squidding Around. Here we meet Squizzard and his best friend Toothy in their school under the sea. The two friends are opposites, and their differences may prove to be too much in this story.

Squizzard is a fun-loving, at times bossy, friend who loves being the leader and center of attention. He crafts games, takes the lead and avoids work whenever possible. One day though, his selfishness goes too far and hurts his best friend's feelings. A gentle giant, Toothy is shy and quiet for a great white shark, but when Squizzard calls his oral report on one of his favorite shells boring, he's had enough. He tells Squizzard they aren't friends any more. Devastated, Squizzard learns from his mistakes and takes ownership of his actions determined to get his friend back.

I like that this story walks children through what a fight with a friend might look like. It evaluates and shows how Squizzard lets Toothy down and the steps he takes to make things right between them. Not only will children identify with one of the friends, but will hopefully learn from them on what to do if they are ever in a similar situation.

The paneling, the art, and text are easy to read, engaging, and support comprehension of the plot. I personally like that it is even divided into short, consumable chapters, giving confidence to newly independent readers.

Final Thought: Teaching the value of friendship and how to work through a fight, Fish Feud! is sure to delight and engage newly independent readers.