Leo Learns to Swim

Description

Leo is a sea turtle born with one flipper shorter than the other which prevents him from swimming into the ocean with his siblings and cousins. Leo tries different ways to “fix” himself but when nothing works he begins to lose hope. Then a starfish with a similar issue helps him discover if he focuses on his strengths rather than his weaknesses he just might learn to swim. Still, it takes caring about others more than himself that ultimately gives Leo the “fix” he needs.

Paperback: 34 pages
Publisher: 102nd Place, LLC (May 26, 2017)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0986363871
ISBN-13: 978-0986363870

Review
Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers’ Favorite – 5 Stars!
Leo Learns to Swim by Caren Cantrell is about a baby sea turtle who discovers, upon hatching, that he has one flipper shorter than the others. Unable to swim, Leo is too scared to follow his siblings and cousins into the ocean, but he knows the sand holds many dangers. With a series of inventive ideas, Leo tries to teach himself how to swim, but it’s not until he meets a starfish that he discovers the inspiration he needs to be brave.

Leo Learns to Swim is a cute, charming, and sweet story that a lot of kids will be able to connect with. In addition, Gail Maguire creates lovely illustrations with soft colors and a fun, expressive style that shows the determination and anxiety that Leo experiences. The story is aimed at very young readers, but it’s endearing for all ages, featuring this little turtle that just wants to be able to swim. His inventions are quirky and humorous, but also heartwarming. I felt so much for this little turtle when he attaches a piece of driftwood to his flipper, and then doesn’t give up whenever that plops off; instead, he tries again and again. The lesson here is not giving up and caring for each other.The starfish was a delightful touch, giving Leo someone that he can relate to.The language is fun with words such as “plops,” “whoosh,” and “topsy-turvy.”Caren Cantrell creates a lovable character in Leo. He’s absolutely adorable, brave, inventive, sympathetic, and caring. A must-read for every kid’s book collection!