jcschlotfelt2313's review against another edition
3.0
A solid story to teach the value of those around you who may be frightening or different. Illustrations are beautiful.
amysutton's review against another edition
2.0
Very simplistic and short storyline. The art was well done, but the story felt like it was missing something.
the_lobrarian's review
- Illustrations are paint and batik on silk, "based on centuries-old Oriental techniques of textile decoration"
allen_h's review against another edition
4.0
This is a book about a great big, friendly, ugly fish. Big Al has no friends because of his looks. Despite his efforts to gain friends with the other fish, he is unsuccessful. One day Big Al notices that all the other fish are trapped in a net. He rips a hole in the net and frees the other fish. Unfortunately, he becomes ensnared in the net and it is raised to the surface and out of the water. With one look at Big Al, the fishermen throw him back into the sea, where he is joined by all of his new friends.
I like this book for several reasons. First, it is about friendships, and there are many times that I have felt the same way as Big Al. Second, I was called Big Al all through junior high and high school.
This would be a great book to show that looks do not determine what someone is like on the inside, and that we should not stereotype anyone just because of appearances. (I Sam. 16)
I like this book for several reasons. First, it is about friendships, and there are many times that I have felt the same way as Big Al. Second, I was called Big Al all through junior high and high school.
This would be a great book to show that looks do not determine what someone is like on the inside, and that we should not stereotype anyone just because of appearances. (I Sam. 16)
scostner's review against another edition
3.0
Big Al's story is nearly an opposite to Rainbow Fish. Al can't get a friend because he is so big and scary looking.
wordnerd153's review against another edition
4.0
Sweet story of friendship and not judging people (or fish) by their appearance.
veganemelda's review
3.0
Gorgeous illustrations, and the kids liked it. Vegan parents, you can take it to an anti-fishing place if you like!
luann's review
4.0
Even though he's big and scary-looking, Big Al wants to have friends. He tries to make friends with all the little fish, but they always run away from him. Big Al has to figure out a way to make friends despite his appearance. A nice story with nice illustrations about the importance of character over appearance.
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