Title: The Day I Swapped My Dad for Two Goldfish
Author: Neil Gaiman
First published January 1, 1997
64 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780060587017 (ISBN10: 0060587016)
Rating: 3.99
Overview
“I have an idea,” I said to my little sister. “What if we swapped Dad for two goldfish?” She looked at me with wide eyes.
What if we could finally have those beautiful fish that we always wanted? But what would happen when our parents found out?
Join us on a hilarious adventure as we navigate the consequences of our wild idea. From the beloved author and illustrator of best-sellers comes this unique and wonderfully funny story that will have readers of all ages laughing out loud.
This new edition features brand-new jacket art and an afterword by the author on the inspiration behind this unforgettable tale.
Editoral Review
The Day I Swapped My Dad for Two Goldfish by Neil Gaiman is a whimsical and imaginative children’s book that was first published in 1997. Gaiman is a prolific and celebrated author, known for his works in a variety of genres including fantasy, horror, and comics.
This book is no exception to his unique and creative style.
The book follows a young boy who decides to trade his dad for two goldfish with his friend. However, the boy soon realizes that he has made a mistake and sets out on a wild adventure to get his dad back.
Along the way, he meets a cast of strange and quirky characters, including a giant ant, a witch, and a group of pirates.
The story is set in a fantastical world that is both familiar and strange. The main character’s house and neighborhood are depicted in a realistic style, while the characters and creatures he encounters are more surreal and fantastical.
The book explores themes of family, friendship, and the consequences of our actions.
Gaiman’s writing is witty and engaging, and he has a talent for creating memorable characters. The pacing of the story is excellent, with the action moving quickly from one scene to the next.
The illustrations by Dave McKean are also a standout feature of the book, with their bold and colorful style.
One of the strengths of the book is its ability to appeal to both children and adults. The humor and whimsy will appeal to younger readers, while the clever writing and references will entertain older readers.
The book has also been praised for its portrayal of the bond between father and son, which is both heartwarming and relatable.
However, some readers may find the story to be too simplistic or lacking in depth. The book is aimed at a younger audience, so it may not be as complex as some of Gaiman’s other works.
Additionally, some readers may find the ending to be a bit abrupt or unsatisfying.
Overall, The Day I Swapped My Dad for Two Goldfish is a delightful and entertaining read that will appeal to children and adults alike. It is a testament to Gaiman’s skill as a writer and storyteller.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun and imaginative story that will transport them to a world of magic and wonder.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
