The Shark Who Was Afraid of Everything

Author/Illustrator: Brian James/Bruce McNally

About the Author:

Brian James was born in 1976 outside of Philadelphia.  In 1994he moved to New York City.  He has written and published both books and poems.

Genre: Fiction
Grade Level: K-3

Synopsis:
This story is about Sharkie the shark who is always afraid.  He is afraid of everything from the dark to snails.  Sharkie thought the other sharks were right and that he was no good because he’s a scared shark so he took off and Lily the little fish followed right behind him. The two new friends had fun playing together until they realized they were lost.  Lily was scared but Sharkie helped get them back home.  Once the returned everyone was so happy they began to call Sharkie the bravest shark!

Pre Reading Activity:

Before reading it would be good to have a conversation with your students about fears.  They need to know that everyone is afraid of something and that some of their friends might be afraid of the same things that they are.

Post Reading Activity:

After reading have the students come up with ways together to overcome their fears.  Whether it be facing them or ignoring them or any ways that they can come up with.

Reflection:

I enjoyed this book because it talks about something real for the children.  Children are sometimes ashamed to say that they are afraid of something because they might get laughed at.  Once they know that other kids might be afraid too they will feel more comfortable being themselves in the classroom.