1, 2, 3, Jump! by Lisl H. Detlefsen (review)

In this cheerful guide, an unseen narrator uses direct address to help the young protagonist through her first swim lesson. There is, of course, the suit (but not the gray three-piece with the top hat); then the cap (but not the jaunty baseball cap with the brim); and finally, goggles. Now, into the water. Well, maybe not yet—even after being assured that she will not freeze into a kidsicle and that there are no sea creatures, alligators, or sharks in sight, our girl just isn't ready. The promise of flippers, however, finally gets her to take the leap, much to the enthusiastic cheers of her fellow pool-goers. Valentine's buoyant illustrations deftly capture the playful milieu of the pool, from the sweet old ladies doing water aerobics to the excited kiddos jumping in with abandon, and the girl's imaginings are made real in the art, with alligators, sea monsters, and mermaids all making an appearance. Dappled shades of teal and sky blue give the water both depth and movement while more solid pops of color can be found in swim caps, toys, and bathing suits; the girl's trepidation is evident as oversized goggles magnify her already wide-eyed expression, and her triumphant plunge will surely garner cheers from viewers. Pair this with Cornwall's Jabari Jumps (BCCB 5/17) for an encouraging primer before kiddos head off to make their big splash. KQG