Sergio loves water but not the deep kind. “When he’s around water, Sergio can be: relaxed, happy, funny, playful and silly.” Which makes sense because Sergio is a penguin from Argentina, down near the South Pole. His three favourite things are soccer, fish and water – especially water – but when his class goes swimming Sergio is scared because he can’t swim.

Sergio’s friends quickly hop in but Sergio holds back, despite having on his floaties. Finally Sergio jumps in “but his aim is a bit off.” He bumps and rolls into the ocean and disappears. Mrs. Waddle and his friends wait and finally Sergio pops to the surface. Sergio discovers loves the ocean and can’t wait to come back. “That was better than the rain, puddles, and a cold bath all put together,” says Sergio.

Edel Rodriguez wonderful illustrations work brilliantly with the charming text of Sergio Makes a Splash!. The illustrations, created with oil-based woodblock ink, are printed in three colours – aqua, yellow and black – ensuring the colours pop and attract children’s attention. The first illustration diagramming “Sergio” is especially captivating, pointing out his height (1 foot), weight (1 pound), his curious smile and perky “wings.” The text is printed in large letters and some are included in the illustrations as dialogue bubbles.

Sergio Makes a Splash! is perfect for children worried about trying something new, especially swimming. As Sergio says on the back cover, “This is a great book! It’s all about me!” Children are sure to agree.

ISBN10: 0316066168
ISBN13: 9780316066167

Hardcover
40 Pages
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company
Publication Date: May 1, 2008

Author website: edelrodriguez.com
Sergio’s website: sergiothepenguin.com

tags: books book reviews Edel Rodriguez children’s book