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I Will Swim Next Time
"Gentle, inspiring, and important... for parents looking to quell children's fears, support their dreams, and allow them room to grow." – Kirkus Reviews "When we went to a beach,
my tummy felt tight.
but it still felt wrong inside. Definitely... possibly... Perhaps I'd swim – next time." At first the big blue sea makes them feel small and scared. Then the child visits a lake and a river, and their fear of water gradually starts to ebb as curiosity begins to flow. A wonderful book for any child who is feeling nervous about new experiences, with lyrical words by Emily Joof and bold, dynamic illustrations by Matilda Ruta.
my tummy felt tight.
but it still felt wrong inside. Definitely... possibly... Perhaps I'd swim – next time." At first the big blue sea makes them feel small and scared. Then the child visits a lake and a river, and their fear of water gradually starts to ebb as curiosity begins to flow. A wonderful book for any child who is feeling nervous about new experiences, with lyrical words by Emily Joof and bold, dynamic illustrations by Matilda Ruta.
32 pages, Hardcover
Published August 1, 2023
About the author
Emily Joof
25 books10 followersEmily Joof moved to Sweden 10 years ago and works as the Global Education Technical Advisor at Save the Children Sweden.
She is an author of children's books and writes stories with a focus on inclusion and diversity from an afro diasporan perspective.
Emily is published by the Swedish Publisher Raben & Sjögren and also self publishes some of her titles through her independent publishing house Mbife Books.
Emily is currently doing a part time PhD at Lancaster university in the UK , the focus of her research being on the impact that Children’s Literature can have on fostering inclusions in preschools.
Emily has a masters in education and international development from University of London institute of Education. And a Bachelors degree in ancient history and social anthropology from University College London.
She is an author of children's books and writes stories with a focus on inclusion and diversity from an afro diasporan perspective.
Emily is published by the Swedish Publisher Raben & Sjögren and also self publishes some of her titles through her independent publishing house Mbife Books.
Emily is currently doing a part time PhD at Lancaster university in the UK , the focus of her research being on the impact that Children’s Literature can have on fostering inclusions in preschools.
Emily has a masters in education and international development from University of London institute of Education. And a Bachelors degree in ancient history and social anthropology from University College London.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
August 1, 2023
WHAT A GORGEOUS BOOK!!!!
As soon as I opened this digital book I may or may not have swooned a little simply from the illustrations and the gorgeous colors that were popping out at me. And then I started the story and just fell in love.
This is a sweet story about a little that when introduced to the water is afraid and doesn't want to try swimming. And bless that mother, she never pushes, just introduces the child to water over and over until the child is comfortable with the idea and then finds water that isn't so scary [a pool] and jumps in and learns the delight of swimming and you just cheer along with the child in their delight.
This is an important book for littles who have a fear of water and shows how you can overcome that with love and support from those around you [oh that we all could have had that - I am still traumatized by my water experience and how my father thought I needed to learn to swim; I would have loved the mother in this book] and will teach parents/caregivers how to deal with a child who is afraid [this will apply to ANYTHING that they are afraid of in life in reality] and will give the child hope that they will learn to be less afraid.
This is one of the most gorgeously illustrated books I have read as of late and that will absolutely help engage your little in the story.
This is just fantastic and I highly recommend it!!
Thank you to NetGalley, Emily Joof, Matilda Ruta - Illustrator, and Floris Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
As soon as I opened this digital book I may or may not have swooned a little simply from the illustrations and the gorgeous colors that were popping out at me. And then I started the story and just fell in love.
This is a sweet story about a little that when introduced to the water is afraid and doesn't want to try swimming. And bless that mother, she never pushes, just introduces the child to water over and over until the child is comfortable with the idea and then finds water that isn't so scary [a pool] and jumps in and learns the delight of swimming and you just cheer along with the child in their delight.
This is an important book for littles who have a fear of water and shows how you can overcome that with love and support from those around you [oh that we all could have had that - I am still traumatized by my water experience and how my father thought I needed to learn to swim; I would have loved the mother in this book] and will teach parents/caregivers how to deal with a child who is afraid [this will apply to ANYTHING that they are afraid of in life in reality] and will give the child hope that they will learn to be less afraid.
This is one of the most gorgeously illustrated books I have read as of late and that will absolutely help engage your little in the story.
This is just fantastic and I highly recommend it!!
Thank you to NetGalley, Emily Joof, Matilda Ruta - Illustrator, and Floris Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 12, 2023
Really cute book for timid swimmers! Wonderful illustrations. If you have a timid swimmer this is the book for them.
July 29, 2023
In this gorgeously illustrated picture book, a mother helps her child get ready to swim. The child feels both excited and nervous around bodies of water, getting a little closer each time and then saying, "I will swim next time." The mother encourages her child, doesn't push, and eases them into each new experience. The book ends with swimming lessons at a pool, and the child is full of delight at finally swimming.
This book can be helpful for other kids who feel nervous around water, or who are torn between excitement and reluctance about other activities. The book conveys a reassuring message without being too direct and preachy, and the beautiful illustrations encourage a sense of wonder and joy. The diverse representation is also appealing, and if someone is specifically looking for racially diverse books about swimming, I would also recommend When You Can Swim by Jack Wong, Saturday Is Swimming Day by Hyewon Yum, and Our Pool by Lucy Ruth Cummins.
I received a temporary digital copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book can be helpful for other kids who feel nervous around water, or who are torn between excitement and reluctance about other activities. The book conveys a reassuring message without being too direct and preachy, and the beautiful illustrations encourage a sense of wonder and joy. The diverse representation is also appealing, and if someone is specifically looking for racially diverse books about swimming, I would also recommend When You Can Swim by Jack Wong, Saturday Is Swimming Day by Hyewon Yum, and Our Pool by Lucy Ruth Cummins.
I received a temporary digital copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 29, 2023
A young Black child explains how water came to be her “special place to be” after conquering her fears. I love how she identifies her feelings about water – how the expanse of sea scared her, how the sound overwhelmed her, and how it felt so cold. Then she started noticing the cute animals in and around the sea and lake, and began to dip her toes in. She and her mama read stories together about “watery worlds,” but even so, Mama assured her that it was okay to wait until she feels just right. When she begins swimming lessons in the calm water of a swimming pool with Mama, she finds that swimming is lots of fun.
This quiet, gentle book perfectly encapsulates the hesitations of many children around water, by honoring their emotions and process. Readers will enjoy the child’s repeated mantra that she’d go in “next time,” until she finally arrives at “this time.” The lovely ink and watercolor art creates lovely watery scenes that are so inviting, with the child and her mother and cute animals vividly outlined in black ink. Forget about the old method of throwing a child into deep water to make them literally sink or swim. A little patience goes a long way.
This quiet, gentle book perfectly encapsulates the hesitations of many children around water, by honoring their emotions and process. Readers will enjoy the child’s repeated mantra that she’d go in “next time,” until she finally arrives at “this time.” The lovely ink and watercolor art creates lovely watery scenes that are so inviting, with the child and her mother and cute animals vividly outlined in black ink. Forget about the old method of throwing a child into deep water to make them literally sink or swim. A little patience goes a long way.
May 20, 2023
This one is a 3.5 for me. Striking ink and watercolor illustrations throughout this picture book complement a gentle, relatable story about trying something new. The rhyming lines and artwork follow a child who feels unsure about spending any time in the water. The child's mother doesn't push her little one to enter the water, instead choosing to introduce him/her/them to it gradually, even reading stories about sea adventures. (That's clearly a savvy mother as these scenes of wonder make the child even more curious about the ocean. Each time the child hesitates and promises to get in the water next time, the mother simply waits patiently. All that patience pays off when the child finally leaps into a swimming pool and how water can be that special place to be. Not only will this book alleviate some of the fears little ones have about getting into the water and swimming, but it also just might reassure anyone who is about to embark on a trip to an unfamiliar place or start a new hobby or even reach out to make a new friend.
August 4, 2023
3.5*
I Will Swim Next Time is about a young child who is afraid to swim and whose mother reassures them that they will know when they are ready to try. The ocean is big and scary Eventually, they do try to swim and love it.
What I Liked: The message of listening to your body and not being pressured to try something if you don't feel ready is so important and is presented in a way that is easy to understand. The illustrator uses ink and watercolors to create stunning illustrations.
What Left Me Wanting More: Mostly written in verse, there are some pages that seem choppy and don't flow smoothly.
I Will Swim Next Time is a beautifully written story that will appeal to timid swimmers.
This review first appeared on YA Book Central and can be found here : https://www.yabookscentral.com/i-will...
I Will Swim Next Time is about a young child who is afraid to swim and whose mother reassures them that they will know when they are ready to try. The ocean is big and scary Eventually, they do try to swim and love it.
What I Liked: The message of listening to your body and not being pressured to try something if you don't feel ready is so important and is presented in a way that is easy to understand. The illustrator uses ink and watercolors to create stunning illustrations.
What Left Me Wanting More: Mostly written in verse, there are some pages that seem choppy and don't flow smoothly.
I Will Swim Next Time is a beautifully written story that will appeal to timid swimmers.
This review first appeared on YA Book Central and can be found here : https://www.yabookscentral.com/i-will...
August 3, 2023
A cute book with a nice rhythm and flow. I really like the animations in the book. Many kids will be able to relate to this book. Going into the water can be frightening for many young kids, especially when it comes to swimming outdoors in the river, pond, lake, or ocean. Pools are often less intimidating, and kids don’t have to fear fish or other things that may lurk beneath the water. This book shares the important message that things will happen when the time is right. This book was also enjoyed by my three-year-old child who only recently has become comfortable in water.
Thank you to Floris Books and NetGalley for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Floris Books and NetGalley for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 21, 2023
Little steps, big leap..
This book is a gentle and motivating book to teach children to overcome their fears by taking little steps in order to explore new journeys.
"I Will Swim Next Time," is an adorable picturebook about a little child who is curious to explore the beach but is too nervous to try, until one day, the child jumps into the pool.
This story is different from most motivational stories. To explain further, most stories have similar situations where the character is nervous to commit to do something. These stories have that rushing "just-do- it" motivation . However, this book clearly indicates that it is alright to be nervous and to take our own time before we are ready.
Lovely read with an interesting message. I would recommend it.
This book is a gentle and motivating book to teach children to overcome their fears by taking little steps in order to explore new journeys.
"I Will Swim Next Time," is an adorable picturebook about a little child who is curious to explore the beach but is too nervous to try, until one day, the child jumps into the pool.
This story is different from most motivational stories. To explain further, most stories have similar situations where the character is nervous to commit to do something. These stories have that rushing "just-do- it" motivation . However, this book clearly indicates that it is alright to be nervous and to take our own time before we are ready.
Lovely read with an interesting message. I would recommend it.
November 16, 2023
With three children with different personalities, it is always interesting to see how they each take on new experiences. In regards to the water, my oldest was cautious, yet took tiny steps towards bravery. My middle child tends to jump in headfirst and then possibly have some regrets later (luckily we are always there to lend a helping hand). My youngest is spunky and headstrong thinking that she knows exactly what she’s getting into.
I Will Swim Next Time is a beautiful book expressing the importance of doing things at your own pace. I love the relationship the child has with their mother: she’s so patient and supportive. You can see how a healthy relationship with water is forming, since swim safety is so important!
Add this book to your reading pile before summer is over!
I Will Swim Next Time is a beautiful book expressing the importance of doing things at your own pace. I love the relationship the child has with their mother: she’s so patient and supportive. You can see how a healthy relationship with water is forming, since swim safety is so important!
Add this book to your reading pile before summer is over!
April 25, 2023
A very decent telling, in the first person and more or less in verse, of how a young girl defeats her anxiety about swimming. The sea seems fierce, the lake deep with mysteries, but there is always the municipal pool. I was grateful for the message being "just bide your time, the sea is always waiting" rather than the "you can do this!" shrieking platitude other books may have featured. And it will only take a nudge from an adult to confirm to any child member of the audience that this does not exclusively apply to swimming and the sea. Despite the book originally being Swedish, the characters are clearly people of colour, if that matters to anyone.
August 3, 2023
A sweet story that will remind children that it is okay to not vibe with a new experience right away. It is also a good reminder to parents to have patience and simply be there to support their children as they learn new things and have new experiences for the first time. The illustrations are breathtaking, vibrant, and pair perfectly with the lyrical words of the story being told.
Disclaimer: I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher for free and have voluntarily written this review.
Disclaimer: I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher for free and have voluntarily written this review.
August 16, 2023
This is a super cute book about a little boy who is a timid swimmer. His mother helps him along the way to get past his nerves and get ready to swim. He gets excited, and nervous, around different bodies of water, and thinks that he'll swim next time. Finally, he does it with the continued encouragement of his mother! There are wonderful illustrations throughout this book. I will definitely recommend this book to others!
Thank you, NetGalley, for an advanced read of this book for an honest review.
#IWillSwimNextTime #NetGalley
Thank you, NetGalley, for an advanced read of this book for an honest review.
#IWillSwimNextTime #NetGalley
August 18, 2023
As someone who grew up in a beach town and was also afraid of deep water, I wish I had had this book when I was a kid! I Will Swim Next Time is a sweet picturebook about a little kid who is interested in the water and swimming but is too nervous to try, until one day they decide to just jump in the pool! The message overall is that it is ok to wait until you're ready to try something that makes you nervous. I love this message because it takes children's fears seriously, rather than brushing the fears aside and saying, "just do it! it's not big deal."
#IWillSwimNextTime #NetGalley
#IWillSwimNextTime #NetGalley
July 12, 2023
This beautifully illustrated picture book focuses on a little boy that has a slight water anxiety. He does at the ocean, lake, and river as long as his mom is there. She always assures him that he will know when it is time for him to swim on his own. By the end of the book her words hold true.
This picture book could be used in either a public library or classroom setting as it has a wonderful SEL component but parents could also use it as a modeling tool for the children at home.
This picture book could be used in either a public library or classroom setting as it has a wonderful SEL component but parents could also use it as a modeling tool for the children at home.
August 31, 2023
Trying new things can be scary. Sometimes it's best to wait until the time is right . . . even if that takes a long time.
This is a sweet story about a little girl who's nervous about getting in the water. Her mother doesn't force the issue, and eventually the child is willing to give it a try. With nice illustrations by Matilda Ruta.
Thanks to NetGalley and Floris Books for the read.
This is a sweet story about a little girl who's nervous about getting in the water. Her mother doesn't force the issue, and eventually the child is willing to give it a try. With nice illustrations by Matilda Ruta.
Thanks to NetGalley and Floris Books for the read.
August 7, 2023
Brings back memories to being a kid and learning to swim for the first time. I see this book being great as a lesson for those that are afraid to swim and needs gentle encouragement. Or even as a lesson for facing other fears outside of swimming. Often I find it sadening how people tell others that their fears arent important and that they should just face them. Yet they don't provide the resources or help to push them to do it when they are ready. I apprieciate that this book showcases the opposite. Some people need more time to face their fears and this book was a great example of how doing so when you are truely ready can be incredibly empowering.
June 15, 2023
This was an adorable picture book about a child learning how to overcome hesitation. If you enjoyed Jabari Jumps, you will enjoy this one as well. Also, the hand-drawn and water color art is gorgeous.
June 18, 2023
4 stars for this delightful book about braving the water for the first time. As a water lover, I loved the child's enthusiasm and the reading about water before eventually venturing in.
I read a digital advanced reader's copy courtesy of the publisher
I read a digital advanced reader's copy courtesy of the publisher
July 13, 2023
I received an electronic ARC from Floris Books through Edelweiss+ and NetGalley. Both permissions arrived on the same day.
The artwork alone is worth opening this book. The first page spread of crashing waves portrays the energy and power to come. Readers meet a child who is afraid to get in the water. Every page spread at a different body of water moves them closer to swimming. I appreciate the message that the parent will always be nearby to help. The text shows how the child get braver and braver until they jump in a pool and then explore water from there.
Encouraging and gentle story.
The artwork alone is worth opening this book. The first page spread of crashing waves portrays the energy and power to come. Readers meet a child who is afraid to get in the water. Every page spread at a different body of water moves them closer to swimming. I appreciate the message that the parent will always be nearby to help. The text shows how the child get braver and braver until they jump in a pool and then explore water from there.
Encouraging and gentle story.
August 22, 2023
A lovely and encouraging tale of mother love, trying new things, and swimming! Really beautiful illustrations and the writing is very soothing and rhythmic.
Themes: New Experiences, Bravery, Swimming
Age range: Toddler-Kindergarten
Themes: New Experiences, Bravery, Swimming
Age range: Toddler-Kindergarten
September 27, 2023
I really enjoyed this approach to the topic of swimming. It made me remember my mother's taking me to the YMCA to learn to swim and how important it was that I be more confident in the water. It's also a good conversation starter about building courage.
October 28, 2023
Terrific illustrations that almost-but-not-quite take over the book. The simple text holds its own and will absolutely connect with kids that find the water truly frightening. The book delivers a wonderful message taking on fears when the time feels right.
November 16, 2023
The illustrations are stunning. The first thing I noticed when I picked it up was the beautiful water color brushstrokes. Simple sweet story about being afraid to swim and overcoming that fear with love and guidance.
June 17, 2024
Engaging illustrations with vibrant colors bring readers into this heartwarming story about a child who’s afraid of the water. With patient support by Mom and swimming instruction in the community pool, the child learns to face the fear of firsts and jump in to one of life’s great pleasures.
August 10, 2023
I love the gentle feel of this book. There's no pressure from the child's grown-up, no shame, just acceptance and willingness to keep trying.
October 25, 2023
so many kids will be able to relate to the dilemma of doing that scary thing "next time". I loved this translated book.
Read
November 28, 2023Turn/Level: 1/3
Swimming
Swimming
November 29, 2023
big water sign energy
January 28, 2024
Challenge by choice!
April 25, 2024
Great for toddler plus! Social-emotional, PLAY
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews