Barnacle Is Bored is a story about observations. As the title clearly states, Barnacle is Bored. Each day he hangs out beneath the pier – just being a barnacle. The tide flows in and out. No fun. No action. No excitement.

Barnacle is envious of his fellow sea creatures – especially the “little polka dotted show off.” Everyone else gets to swim and play. They are colorful and free to explore the ocean.

By the end of the story, Barnacle learns that the grass is not always greener. After Barnacle watches his polka dotted friend get gobbled up by a larger fish, he excitedly exclaims, “I’m not bored!”

In this book, Jonathan Fenske uses cool ocean colors to set the tone. Smiling faces and cunning smirks bring playful sea creatures to life. The text is clear and easy to read.

Most importantly, “Barnacle Is Bored” teaches the valuable lesson that sometimes everything is just fine the way it is.