Can you teach a fish to climb a tree? by Jane Godwin illustrated by Terry Denton

 

Einstein did not say: "Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid."

This quote, by an unknown person, is the inspiration for this quirky book which celebrates difference and talent.

"Could a dog play the violin?"

"Could a baby bake a cake? Or a horse drive a car?"

"Do you think a lizard could ever learn to sail a boat?"

All of these propositions are preposterous but  then in the second half of this book Jane Godwin shines a spotlight on each animal and their own unique talent which, in an interesting twist, are mostly about survival such as the lizard camouflaging to avoid the kookaburra and the penguins huddling together to keep warm. Of course, the final focus is on all the wonderful things YOU can do. You almost need a magnifying glass to explore all the activities on this double page spread. 

The CBCA (Children's Book of the Year) Early Childhood judges said: Children will initially find the series of posed questions in this imaginative book, both preposterous and comical, a great device to engage them in reflections and discussions about self-acceptance, diversity and understanding others. Quirky, loose ink and watercolour illustrations, abounding in small humorous details, enhance the succinct narrative inviting children to follow the unfolding visual stories and create their own. The pace builds with the increasing silliness in the first half, which is followed by a more considered, thoughtful second half, cleverly incorporating fascinating facts about remarkable attributes of various animals (and human babies). Powerful yet with a light touch that feels fresh and unique, this interactive picture book will sit well in homes, libraries and educational settings.

Terry Denton’s iconic illustration style captures the humour of animals in ridiculous situations. His images are detailed, colourful and full of expression, inviting readers to take time to explore them, discovering new details with each read. Scholastic Australia ASO Teachers notes.

Other picture books that explore unique talents:

Best Test; and If Only

I like the debossed cover of Can you teach a fish to climb a tree? Children will enjoy running their fingers over the title. I am also happy to see Terry Denton returning to his earlier art style. Of course, he is famous for all the Storey Treehouse books but I am a huge fan of his early books such as Felix and Alexander and the little obscure book The Story of Imelda who used to be Small (two illustrations below) and also Night Noises by Margaret Wild, Ducky's Nest by Gillian Rubenstein and At the Cafe Splendid.

Felix and Alexander

Two pages from The Story of Imelda who used to be small by Morris Lurie (1984)

Here are some other books by Jane Godwin. I especially love Ivanhoe Swift left home at Six, Poor Fish, What do you wish for?  and The Best Hiding Place: