Ready for a new take on JAWS? Well, a picture book take filled with dark humor, that is…
So here we are watching Underwater World with our host, Bob the jelly, when—
Luckily, shark finds out that the cameras are rolling and changes tacks to save his image, saying
“…showing him my new tooth!”
While Bob inserts facts about sharks, in this case their teeth, every other character on the spread, the fish—the target of shark’s original attack, and the camera crew take the opportunity to interject there own commentary, be it humorous or factual.
Shark then strikes off after a baby seal, only to be caught once more in mid-attack. In this case, he insists he’s just:
Bob interjects with facts about how much sharks eat and that one of their favorite foods are baby seals! Plus more hilarious commentary from the underwater camera crew.
Then shark starts sniffing! This time shark smells BLOOD!
“Noooo, shark, don’t eat the PEOPLE—in front of the people!!!”
But once again, shark is misunderstood. He’s brought boo-boo strips for a boy playing in the water, a boy with a boo-boo. From here on in, the one-liners come fast and furious, like a shark attack.
Poor, poor misunderstood shark just needs a hug….which leads to SNIFF! SNIFF! “You smell good!”
And the ending…..”that’s a wrap….” You aren’t afraid of sharks, are you? ARE YOU????
Title: Misunderstood Shark
Author: Ame Dyckman
Illustrator: Scott Magoon
Publisher: Scholastic, Orchard Books imprint, 2018
Themes: shark (and other sea creatures) info, lesson in irony
Ages: pre-K – grade 3
For more perfect picture books, visit Susanna Hill’s blog.
Jilanne Hoffmann 
What a humorous book about a clever shark. You have to admit, he appears endearing! But, I don’t like sharks.
He does try to portray himself in the best way—when he’s in the spotlight, right? Because that’s what a shark would do. The ending is perfect because we still have more than a shadow of a doubt about the true motives of the shark.
I love a little dark humor in my picture books and I love Ame Dyckman’s other picture books, so this is a must-read for me! Thanks for sharing, Jilanne!
Yes, the dark humor will leave kids with chills and smiles. Her humor is spot on. I know you’ll enjoy this one!
Ame really is one of the funniest picture book authors out there.
Yes, she’s got some serious chops.
OMG! I HAVE to get this one. It looks very funny.
Plus, I was just reading last night how the world’s sharks are being over-fished, so this would be a great segue into an environmental talk.
Thanks for sharing!
Awesome pairing! Do it! The kids will LOVE it!
I love Ame Dykman. What a fun book. Amazing how (many) bullies change their tune/strips when they are observed/caught in the act. Although, sharks aren’t “actually” bulies, but it is funny that he changes his tune for the camera. 🙂
Yes, Ame is a great mentor for writing funny books! It’s also interesting to see how some of the humor depends on the illustrations here, too.
This is hilarious. I hope our library down here has it. I can just see the kids cracking up over the illustrations and learning at the same time. Great fine!
I hope you can find it! I think it will be one they’re want to read over and over again.
This looks too fun to miss! Sharks get no respect…
I respect them plenty when I’m in their element, LOL. But this guy, he just wants to be understood. 😀
Oh, I need a final page of shark chomping mayhem.
My question to you: What would rodent chomping mayhem look like?
Take a peek at Everybody’s Favorite Book and you’ll find out!
I just got a message that it’s on the way to my doorstep. Eagerly awaiting its arrival!
YES!
As a shark lover, I love this book! What a great message for young readers. 🙂
Yes, that poor misunderstood shark is so sweet. I think it’s the perfect gift for any shark lover.