Review: Nikki Learns to Swim Minus the Important Rules of Water Play
Rating: 3 out of 5
Date: 11 3, 2012
I almost gave a 4 however, I found a couple of things kept bothering me while I was thinking about what to write.This story, told in rhyming poetry, is about a little girl who prefers to splish and splash alone in her pool, instead of going to the big local pool and learning how to swim properly with other children.  Her mother decides that she no longer has a choice in the matter.While there were a couple of verses that were difficult to say.  The worst being"There's Mr. Zac," Mommy saidAnd she looked up and saw himHis feet were in flip-flopsAnd his arms tan and slim.most of the poetry was well rhymed, had good rhythm and was easily spoken.The story was well conceived, with Nikki, happy in her little pool and just being stubborn about learning.  However, once Nikki gets to the big pool anything to do with her learning to swim especially the most important rule of never be in any pool alone is absent.  There is only one verse on learning how to swim:She jumped in the poolWith Mr. Zac and the boysThey splashed and they kickedAnd shared floaty toys.The story is illustrated in a bright, colorful, yet simplistic manner.  The illustrations are initially eye catching but not overly engaging.However, the mistake which cost the 1 star is at the end, after one lesson Nikki believes she can swim and goes into her little pool alone.  As far as the illustration is concerned no one is there to watch her in the pool. With all of the time and effort in describing and illustrating her wild fears of a strange swim teacher and big pool, I would expected a couple of verses on how it took a little time to learn how to breathe, by blowing bubbles;  how to kick using a kickboard, but most important the number one rule when it comes to swimming; no going near the water without an adult.So while I think this might be a good starting point for talking to a child who is reluctant to go near large pools.  It must be followed by safety rules.Bailey, Jennifer Ann; Kammerer, Ann (2012-09-18). Nikki Learns to Swim (Children's Bedtime Books) (Kindle Locations 57-58).  . Kindle Edition.Bailey, Jennifer Ann; Kammerer, Ann (2012-09-18). Nikki Learns to Swim (Children's Bedtime Books) (Kindle Locations 52-53).  . Kindle Edition.