A Salmon for Simon

Agreeing with the previous review, I would add that Simon's perceptions, reactions, and actions are realistic for an 8 to 10 year old boy. Also admirable are the low-key presentation of Simon's determination and persistence--just as in the best folk tales he does what he has to do without any self-consciousness of heroism. The illustrations are very expressive but the perspective is a bit shallow--but this won't bother children.

Simon has been trying to catch a salmon all summer long. When he finally has the opportunity to catch a salmon trapped in a hole made by clam digging, he decides the fish belongs back out in the ocean. How he makes the effort and succeeds in freeing the fish is inspiring to young readers. Within the story is a short, two-sentence description of the salmon cycle that readers can understand, and a description of the tidepool life. I'm so happy to see this book still in print! It was one of my son's favorite books when he was little. I highly recommend it to parents and teachers.