Gilbert the Great

We were fortunate enough to have my 6-year old's librarian read this book to the class, shortly after our dog had died. Jane Clarke, the author, who also later came to his school, left open what happened to Raymond, allowing the student to speculate. The book provided an opportunity for a wonderful discussion. Unfortunately, her second Gilbert book (The Deep) isn't quite as tight and of questionable lesson (Gilbert disobeys his mom but learns the unknown isn't necessarily scary/makes new friends). My 6-year old even had issues with the book but always finding the positive remarked that the illustrator to the Gilbert Books was fantastic

I have to admit that I am a sucker for a kids book that depicts sharks as sweet gentle creatures with a wide range of emotions. There just aren't that many books with sharks as the protagonists. But more than that, this is good book (not "great", but worthy of several night-time bed readings). Gilbert the great white shark has a very best friend Raymond the ramora (also seen on cover). They share everything together ... and are shown enjoying one another in all sorts of activities. But one day, Raymond moves away with his family and Gilbert is left feeling all alone. He grieves the loss of his friend for quite some time, while several in the community try to cheer him up (including telling him that "there are plenty of other fish in the sea" ... chuckle, chuckle). But life just isn't the same without Raymond ... and Gilbert finds himself working through the grieving process. He gets angry at his loss, he blames himself for Raymond moving away, he feels guilt over their previous arguments, etc... until he reaches acceptance and begins to hope that Raymond is enjoying his new home. In the end, it is once he reaches acceptance that he discovers the joys of a new friend. Good story for all - but a great stry for those youngsters who are grieving the move of a close friend.

I am 2 1/2 and I love this book. The pictures of the sharks are great and I like to find the stingrays. I am a big fan of all ocean life books so this is a great story.