A first encounter with the ocean is unsettling for the child at the centre of this story, but paddling in a lake and then a river filled with friendly fish changes their perception, so that, ‘Maybe I’ll go in next time.’
Mama is there to share books about the oceans and offer reassurance that the water will still be there when the time is right. And sure enough, that days comes and with it a lifetime of fun in the water. The text is quiet and contemplative, calming against the blues and greens of the water-filled scenes.
This will be a lovely book to share and will be particularly appreciated by children apprehensive about trying something new. The message that it’s fine to go at your own pace is an important one and delivered clearly and sensitively.
"The cool on my toes felt kind of nice. As Mama held me tight, I thought: Maybe I'll go in next time."
A child's first encounter with the sea leaves them feeling small and scared. What could be hiding in the dark depths below? When the family visits a lake and a river, the child's fear of water gradually starts to ebb as curiosity begins to flow. But playing in the water still doesn't feel right. Mama says there is no rush to try swimming, and that the water will wait. Maybe next time?
This gently powerful story about taking your time and listening to yourself is now available in paperback for the first time. Lyrical words from Emily Joof remind us that it's okay for progress to be gradual, while bold and dynamic illustrations from Matilda Ruta bring the journey to life with warmth and vibrancy. A perfect book for any child who is feeling nervous about new experiences.
'A wonderfully gentle approach to children trying new things. [ ] Featuring vibrantly colourful illustrations by Matilda Ruta, this is a great book to share with any child that might be about to embark on the unknown.' - Scottish Book Trust
Author
About Emily Joof
Emily Joof is an African-diaspora author, education expert and mum. She writes children's books and stories with a focus on inclusion and diversity which have been translated into Swedish, French and Wolof. Born in Nigeria, Emily now divides her time between the Gambia, the UK and Sweden. I Will Swim Next Time was inspired by experiences with her daughter.
