Swim Along With Me by Kes Gray Book Review
DISCLOSURE -THIS ITEM WAS GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW. ALL THOUGHTS AND OPINIONS ARE THE REVIEWER’S OWN.
Reviewed by Lindsay Burton
There is something rather lovely about a children’s book that turns an ordinary story time into something a little more exciting, and Swim Along With Me by Kes Gray, illustrated by Mike Moran, certainly has plenty to offer. With its vibrant sea creatures, silly rhymes and clever pop-up surprises, this is a book that invites little readers to get involved rather than simply sit and listen.
One of the first things that makes this book stand out for me is the little surprise tucked inside. Hidden in a secret envelope is Pippa the pop-up pufferfish, who can be taken out and held while the story develops. It is such a simple idea, but one that adds an extra layer of fun to reading together. For younger children, having something they can actually hold and explore makes the whole encounter feel more personal. Pippa isn’t just a character on the page; she becomes part of the adventure.
The story takes readers on an underwater adventure and introduces a whole host of wonderfully named sea creatures along the way. Todd the cod and Luna the tuna are just a couple of the characters children will encounter, and the rhyming names give the book a humorous quality that makes it easy to read aloud. There is something about a good, silly rhyme that children seem to find irresistible, especially when they can join in, guess what might come next or repeat their favourite lines. This book has become one of my granddaughter’s favourites and one she asks for again and again, especially since she became familiar with the rhythm.
The illustrations by Mike Moran help bring the underwater world to life, giving the characters lively and bright personalities. The combination of vivid imagery, spirited language and interactional elements keeps the pages feeling lively. Then comes the big finish, with a bold pop-up of Mark the shark. The exciting pop-up ending makes the story extra special and is sure to be a hit with children who love a good surprise.
What I particularly like about books of this kind is how naturally they encourage children to engage with reading. Sitting together, looking at the pictures, making silly voices for the characters and joining in with the rhymes can all help make books feel enjoyable rather than something children are expected to do. The removable puffer fish also offers opportunities for imaginative play once the story has finished.
At £12.99, it is a little more of a special-book purchase than a basic picture book, but the combination of rhyming storytelling, engaging illustrations and pop-up features gives it something extra. If you’re looking for a book that brings a bit of silliness, surprise and hands-on fun to reading time, this underwater adventure is well worth a look.
I rate this book as 5/5 and would make a lovely gift for any little one and any occasion but would simply be ideal as a stocking filler with Christmas just around the corner. This book can be bought from here https://www.paperenginepublishing.com/products/swim-along-by-kes-gray-illustrated-by-mike-moran
Rating: 5/5