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Arty
Arty is not your typical see a fish you fight Betta. What HE wants most of all is a friend. He knows how he is supposed to be, but...he knows nothing about this "friend" stuff. Can he do it? What do friends really do? Then along comes a silly sea slug, and his world flips upside down.
- GenresGraphic Novels
100 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 10, 2024
5 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
April 17, 2024
Oh my days, this book is insanely cool. The illustrations are perfection and I fell in love with Arty and slug. I think it's a very creative story about friendship and I particularly love how the readers can learn in an interactive way. The book wraps up brilliantly with its very own bloopers reel which made me laugh out loud. Although a kids book, this is a book to be enjoyed by all ages!
April 17, 2024
This was my first graphic novel, and what a treat! The illustrations are beautiful and the theme of friendship is strong throughout. The author has done an amazing job with this book and I think children will love meeting Arty!
May 2, 2024
I have never wanted to befriend a lonely fish so badly. I also didn't know how beautiful sea slugs are!
This graphic novel is informative, fun to read, interactive, and touching. Arty brings to mind that confused bully at the playground who wants to be friends with others but isn't sure how. The story of a budding friendship between different species, the surprising and welcomed laughs, the amazing artwork, the absolute believability that a Betta fish and nudibranch could be friends - these are touchstones of a potential series.
Think outside the box and bubbles. Arty makes me want to embrace new people and befriend them. I hope you will read this with your kids and that they will talk about making new friends. The author/artist invites the reader to draw their own conclusions as well as their own images within.
Enjoy this beautiful rendering. I know I did. Come swim in this pond. It is a delight.
This graphic novel is informative, fun to read, interactive, and touching. Arty brings to mind that confused bully at the playground who wants to be friends with others but isn't sure how. The story of a budding friendship between different species, the surprising and welcomed laughs, the amazing artwork, the absolute believability that a Betta fish and nudibranch could be friends - these are touchstones of a potential series.
Think outside the box and bubbles. Arty makes me want to embrace new people and befriend them. I hope you will read this with your kids and that they will talk about making new friends. The author/artist invites the reader to draw their own conclusions as well as their own images within.
Enjoy this beautiful rendering. I know I did. Come swim in this pond. It is a delight.
May 17, 2024
I really enjoyed ARTY because it’s funny. I liked it at the end where there were bloopers which the author didn’t add to the book. I think she should have added the one where Arty says, “Why doesn’t the snail answer me?” and Slug says, “Maybe it’s because it’s a purple rock…” The illustrations were funny. From my granddaughter, Eleanor E. (almost 9-years-old).
July 8, 2024
I'm always hesitant with these comic style books, but Schneider's book is not the norm. The illustrations are engaging and wonderfully stylistic. The story line is playful, but also meaningful. This book is authentic with a unique storyline and vibrant art--worthy of any kid's attention!
October 31, 2024
This is such a cute book—perfect for everyone! Although it may be aimed at younger readers, anyone will enjoy the story, witty banter, and gorgeous illustrations.
It is the story of friendship between a Betta fish and a slug. Betta fish are supposed to fight everything they see, but Arty is different and wants a friend. He doesn't expect to find it in a slug, but their journey is entertaining. Arty and the slug are on a journey to find the wise snail to get answers to their pressing questions.
This book made me laugh. There are so many witty lines peppered throughout the book. And then, there are "outtakes" which made me laugh even more. You don't expect to find that in a book.
The graphics are amazing. They fit the story perfectly, and the illustrations are professional.
There are even pages where readers can add their own illustrations or thoughts to the questions posed, such as what their next adventure should be or what game they should plan.
While this book is longer than you might think at 100 pages, the story flies by and can be read in 15 minutes since each page is illustrated. But don't fly through the book; stop and enjoy each illustration.
I highly recommend this book and give it 5 paws up.
It is the story of friendship between a Betta fish and a slug. Betta fish are supposed to fight everything they see, but Arty is different and wants a friend. He doesn't expect to find it in a slug, but their journey is entertaining. Arty and the slug are on a journey to find the wise snail to get answers to their pressing questions.
This book made me laugh. There are so many witty lines peppered throughout the book. And then, there are "outtakes" which made me laugh even more. You don't expect to find that in a book.
The graphics are amazing. They fit the story perfectly, and the illustrations are professional.
There are even pages where readers can add their own illustrations or thoughts to the questions posed, such as what their next adventure should be or what game they should plan.
While this book is longer than you might think at 100 pages, the story flies by and can be read in 15 minutes since each page is illustrated. But don't fly through the book; stop and enjoy each illustration.
I highly recommend this book and give it 5 paws up.
April 14, 2024
Arty the Betta is a fish on his ultimate search for self-discovery. He travels through the water in pursuit of a true friend, but also in search for his true identity. Should he pursue a life of fighting as he was born to do? Or should he just be himself and share his life with someone else? Just when we think his search is over, his hopes come true.
I absolutely loved this story, and it’s truly a tale that will be cherished by people of all ages. The artwork is beautifully done, and the story is so touching, funny and witty!!! A seemingly sweet children’s tale reaching deeper into the psyche, this story will render a profound impact on readers of any age, culture or belief system.
And just when you think the story can’t get cuter? Author Penny inserts interactive pauses for readers to self-reflect with our quickly beloved Arty and his adventure. To top it all off, Penny includes facts in the final pages to pique readers’ drive to learn more about the features science connections.
I HIGHLY recommend this book to everyone, and I truly look forward to the adventures of Arty and friends in upcoming books in this series.
I absolutely loved this story, and it’s truly a tale that will be cherished by people of all ages. The artwork is beautifully done, and the story is so touching, funny and witty!!! A seemingly sweet children’s tale reaching deeper into the psyche, this story will render a profound impact on readers of any age, culture or belief system.
And just when you think the story can’t get cuter? Author Penny inserts interactive pauses for readers to self-reflect with our quickly beloved Arty and his adventure. To top it all off, Penny includes facts in the final pages to pique readers’ drive to learn more about the features science connections.
I HIGHLY recommend this book to everyone, and I truly look forward to the adventures of Arty and friends in upcoming books in this series.
August 24, 2024
Such an enjoyable and fun read, full of laughter and underwater adventure. Arty the Betta fish is not just looking for a friend, he is also trying to work out who he is. You see Betta fish are supposed to be tough and mean, they have a reputation for fighting. But Arty is not like that. Even when he tries to behave the way that Betta fish are supposed to, he can't help but apologise for his behaviour. On his journey to find a friend he almost misses what's right in front of him, but don't worry, he soon works it out.
Penny Schneider has a delightfully comic touch in this beautifully illustrated story. The gags just keep on coming, even at the end with some bloopers. The reader is left with the sense of real characters 'acting' in a story, with lots of fun and mayhem along the way. It is a book that is read with a smile on your face, especially with the Slug needs a name sequence - pure joy. I loved the Harry "late night swimming" moment. Huge credit also to the way Penny Schneider has invited the reader to participate in the story. Kids (and adults) will have all sorts of fun with this book!
Penny Schneider has a delightfully comic touch in this beautifully illustrated story. The gags just keep on coming, even at the end with some bloopers. The reader is left with the sense of real characters 'acting' in a story, with lots of fun and mayhem along the way. It is a book that is read with a smile on your face, especially with the Slug needs a name sequence - pure joy. I loved the Harry "late night swimming" moment. Huge credit also to the way Penny Schneider has invited the reader to participate in the story. Kids (and adults) will have all sorts of fun with this book!
July 29, 2024
Beautifully illustrated book that highlights the power and importance of kindness and friendship! This book shows that you don’t have to fit into society’s planned definition of you! You can do the unexpected, and live a happier life on your terms! The author teaches these lessons through fun characters that are simply adorable and lovable, and actively involves the reader with fun artistic activities throughout the book! Then, as an added bonus, the reader gets to learn really interesting fun facts about the sea animals that are represented by the main characters! Amazing learning experience, and beautiful book! Highly recommend Arty!
April 14, 2024
Arty is a fun graphic novel that will bring out lots of big smiles. Arty's search for a friend as a betta fish seems like an impossible dream, but when he meets an unlikely sea creature, they form a friendship the fish of the sea will never forget.
I couldn't help but crack up and smile at the clever jokes sprinkled throughout this story. There's even a blooper section! Penny Schneider's illustrations are absolutely beautiful and feel so alive and animated, truly capturing the feel of being a fish in the ocean. I'm excited for more tales from this author!
I couldn't help but crack up and smile at the clever jokes sprinkled throughout this story. There's even a blooper section! Penny Schneider's illustrations are absolutely beautiful and feel so alive and animated, truly capturing the feel of being a fish in the ocean. I'm excited for more tales from this author!
April 26, 2024
Arty is a beta fish looking for a friend and finds it in a sea slug. Follow their adventures in this cute and funny graphic novel. I really enjoyed this one. I loved how it had actual facts about the real life characters. I also loved there was space after every chapter for the reader to comment and draw too. I think this is going to be a big hit! I can’t wait to share this with others on the book mobile I run.
April 18, 2024
Arty is adorable! It is such a sweet story about friendship. The graphic novel layout is visually appealing, intriguing, and will hold the attention of both kids and adults. My students would love reading it! I look forward to sharing it with them, and my colleagues for their students as well.
May 20, 2024
I read this book with my child thinking it would be a cute animal story but what I found was that it had so many layers to it. The struggles that were faced really parallel the struggles so many children face as they grow up and it was great to have a safe way to start conversations with my child through Arty. We both connected with the characters. I highly recommend!!!!!!!
June 14, 2024
Arty, a beta fish, just wants a friend. On his Journey to find one, he meets Slug and a great friendship is formed. This book is full of humor and fun! The illustrations are wonderful and fluid. Kids will love this graphic novel and will want to read it again and again.
November 4, 2024
This is a cute early graphic novel about a beta fish named Arty who just wants to make a friend.
January 27, 2026
“Arty” is a graphic novel that is well written and illustrated by Penny Schneider. Arty is a betta fish that searches for a friend. At Betta school, the fish are mean. We actually learn facts that betta fish are truly aggressive. Even though Arty is a betta fish, he isn’t aggressive. As Arty searches, he meets someone not like him. Will this be his friend? This is a kind sweet book. Make sure to look at the back of the book to learn more fun facts. I highly recommend this graphic novel. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 15, 2024
The book follows Arty, a curious Betta fish looking for friendship and companionship. He finds camraderie in an adorable sea slug with whom they go on underwater adventures together. What an inspirational story full of laughter-along with beautiful illustrations! Lots of positive messages of friendship, courage, teamwork and empathy. The book also incorporates creative activities for all ages, I would highly recommend!
August 5, 2024
This is a book fit for ALL ages. The look is colorful, inviting, and whimsical. It is not just a “children’s” book. There is a message for all, hidden under the playful, inviting pages. The subject of loneliness, alienation, stereotyping, being “different” and desire for friendship, and the positive effects of overcoming these life-obstacles is clear and will leave a lasting impression! Arty is SOOOOO happy to finally have a friend. I am happy for him, too!! Lots of positivity in this book. There is humor, the opportunity for learning (fun facts at the end), and the opportunity for creativity in the write/draw segments! A great read for everyone!!
September 22, 2024
Arty is a sweet story about looking for friendship. I think people of all ages will enjoy it. The illustrations are absolutely beautiful. I love the pages in between with prompts for the reader to write or draw themselves. The bloopers at the end were an added bonus. The book also included facts about betta fish and slugs. I am looking forward to reading about more adventures of Arty and Slug.
February 1, 2025
Arty is a heartwarming and humorous graphic novel that effortlessly combines vibrant illustrations with witty dialogue. The story follows Arty, a lovable beta fish with a quirky personality, on his journey to find a friend. Set in a colorful underwater world, Arty encounters a range of lively characters, each with their own distinct traits and quirks.
As Arty navigates the ups and downs of his aquatic life, his quest for companionship leads to a series of humorous and unexpected friendships. The charming illustrations bring the underwater adventures to life, while the clever dialogue keeps readers engaged with its sharp humor.
Perfect for fans of graphic novels or anyone in search of a lighthearted escape, Arty is an enchanting read that celebrates the joy of new connections and the simple pleasures of friendship. With its infectious charm and delightful wit, this graphic novel is sure to leave a lasting impression.
As Arty navigates the ups and downs of his aquatic life, his quest for companionship leads to a series of humorous and unexpected friendships. The charming illustrations bring the underwater adventures to life, while the clever dialogue keeps readers engaged with its sharp humor.
Perfect for fans of graphic novels or anyone in search of a lighthearted escape, Arty is an enchanting read that celebrates the joy of new connections and the simple pleasures of friendship. With its infectious charm and delightful wit, this graphic novel is sure to leave a lasting impression.
September 10, 2024
What’s not to love about a little Betta fish who doesn’t want to fight, but only wants a friend? I loved Arty and his underwater world! This was a great graphic novel full of fun and adventure, and the beautiful, colorful illustrations were exceptional. Kids of any age and all graphic novel fans will absolutely love Arty!
April 7, 2025
Adorable. I loved the illustrations.
November 19, 2024
A fish swims against the tide to find that friendship can be difficult to find but golden when it's true.
Arty is a beta fish, which means he should love to fight. But he doesn't. Still, his presence is enough to scare everyone away, and he does find himself using that as a mask against the hurt it causes. Still, he dreams of friendship and decides to search out advice from the wisest entity in the ocean. When he runs into a sea slug, things start to change, and Arty notices that friendship might not pop up in a perfect bubble like his dreams. It might be even better than that.
This is an unique read, which, at times, had me wondering if it'd work or was going astray and yet, pulls in nicely. It draws in and makes it hard to put it down until the very end. Arty is clearly uncomfortable in his own fins. The author spends the first section letting the reader get a good grasp on Arty's problem, which makes the fish sympathetic but, at that same time, slices with his sharp attitude whenever he gets frustrated...and makes him a little hard to like. The sea slug adds spice at just the right time and brings along necessary humor. The odd partnership doesn't slide together immediately, but that's what makes it so fun. It's a strange pairing and so easy to root for as the, sometimes, difficult path to friendship becomes clear.
While there's an obvious message in these pages, it's a fun tale with characters to get behind. The illustrations are in watercolor which fits with the ocean scenes, and they balance with the text to bring across the tale nicely and insert humor. There are a few pages which invite the reader to draw their own scene...which is a nice touch and fits well in the flow.
It's an enjoyable read, and I do hope to see more of these two in the future.
Arty is a beta fish, which means he should love to fight. But he doesn't. Still, his presence is enough to scare everyone away, and he does find himself using that as a mask against the hurt it causes. Still, he dreams of friendship and decides to search out advice from the wisest entity in the ocean. When he runs into a sea slug, things start to change, and Arty notices that friendship might not pop up in a perfect bubble like his dreams. It might be even better than that.
This is an unique read, which, at times, had me wondering if it'd work or was going astray and yet, pulls in nicely. It draws in and makes it hard to put it down until the very end. Arty is clearly uncomfortable in his own fins. The author spends the first section letting the reader get a good grasp on Arty's problem, which makes the fish sympathetic but, at that same time, slices with his sharp attitude whenever he gets frustrated...and makes him a little hard to like. The sea slug adds spice at just the right time and brings along necessary humor. The odd partnership doesn't slide together immediately, but that's what makes it so fun. It's a strange pairing and so easy to root for as the, sometimes, difficult path to friendship becomes clear.
While there's an obvious message in these pages, it's a fun tale with characters to get behind. The illustrations are in watercolor which fits with the ocean scenes, and they balance with the text to bring across the tale nicely and insert humor. There are a few pages which invite the reader to draw their own scene...which is a nice touch and fits well in the flow.
It's an enjoyable read, and I do hope to see more of these two in the future.
July 16, 2024
In the vast expanse of the ocean, Arty the Betta Fish yearns for companionship. As a misfit among his fellow bettas and shunned by nearly everyone he encounters, Arty finds himself profoundly alone. Determined to find answers, he seeks the wisdom of an old snail, embarking on a journey fraught with dangers. Alongside Slug, his unexpected companion, Arty discovers the true essence of friendship as a new adventure unfolds.
ARTY by Penny Schneider is an utterly charming graphic novel for children. The illustrations are captivating, with each character bursting with life and humor, drawing readers into a vibrant underwater world. The narrative is compelling; Arty’s unwavering determination to find a friend despite his differences is heartwarming. Slug’s optimistic outlook on life and the delightful interactions between the two characters are consistently laugh-out-loud funny. The story concludes satisfyingly yet leaves ample room for future adventures. An added bonus of “bloopers” following the main story amplifies the humor, and interspersed pages encourage young artists and authors to envision the story's next steps.
ARTY contains a heartfelt message of friendship, hilarious storytelling, and vividly joyful characters. This graphic novel is ideal for readers aged six and up. It is perfect for those who enjoy light-hearted stories about unlikely friends. A delightful read for a hot summer day, the adventures of Arty and Slug are bound to enchant readers as they continue to explore their enchanting world.
ARTY by Penny Schneider is an utterly charming graphic novel for children. The illustrations are captivating, with each character bursting with life and humor, drawing readers into a vibrant underwater world. The narrative is compelling; Arty’s unwavering determination to find a friend despite his differences is heartwarming. Slug’s optimistic outlook on life and the delightful interactions between the two characters are consistently laugh-out-loud funny. The story concludes satisfyingly yet leaves ample room for future adventures. An added bonus of “bloopers” following the main story amplifies the humor, and interspersed pages encourage young artists and authors to envision the story's next steps.
ARTY contains a heartfelt message of friendship, hilarious storytelling, and vividly joyful characters. This graphic novel is ideal for readers aged six and up. It is perfect for those who enjoy light-hearted stories about unlikely friends. A delightful read for a hot summer day, the adventures of Arty and Slug are bound to enchant readers as they continue to explore their enchanting world.
November 13, 2024
It is no fish tale that this graphic novel is "fintastic". Arty feels like a fish out of water. Penny Schneider has created a cute funny story about and being yourself instead of following expectations. It is also a story about friendship and acceptance. Beta fish are also known as Siamiese fighting fish. . At school, he and his peers are taught "see a fish, fight a fish". But Arty is a Beta who doesn't want to fight. He would rather find a friend. He feels like a fish out of water. So, he goes on a quest to ask the wise old snail how to make a friend. Along the way he meets a slug who tags along simply because the fact that Arty doesn't act like a normal slug has peaked his curiosity. When they finally reach the old wise snail, he is not the sage that they expected. But Arty realizes that the friendship he was searching for, was there all along. This story has cute situations, great banter and a few puns. The beginning sets the tone, when Arty is literally in a "school of fish". Shneider's art is simple, big and bold, perfect for young children. Kids will love this story and adults will appreciate the lessons. Perhaps the best part of the book is the "blooper reel" at the end. It mimics the movie blooper reels that have outtakes of funny mistakes. This chapter is full of quick one or two panel jokes. This is an adorable book that will entertain children of any age.
June 10, 2024
I LOVE Arty! I was hooked reading this book, and was instantly drawn in by the colorful graphics and humor. I really enjoyed the little surprises along the way, such as the interactive pages, scientific facts about Betta fish, and the hysterical bloopers; I especially loved the interactive pages as it is a great way to allow the readers a chance to express their interests and own creativity into the Arty storyline.
In addition to the creative aspects, Arty is a heart-warming, and fun story that shares a valuable lesson. The message about friendship is truly conveyed in such an engaging way for all readers. Arty is a character that anyone, child or adult, can connect to. I am very excited to buy my own copy of Arty and share him with my students. I am looking forward to seeing Arty and Slug’s next adventure! :)
In addition to the creative aspects, Arty is a heart-warming, and fun story that shares a valuable lesson. The message about friendship is truly conveyed in such an engaging way for all readers. Arty is a character that anyone, child or adult, can connect to. I am very excited to buy my own copy of Arty and share him with my students. I am looking forward to seeing Arty and Slug’s next adventure! :)
August 12, 2025
The whole time I read the graphic novel Arty I was smiling. It’s full of humor and heart. Arty is a lonely fish who wants a friend. But Arty is also a Betta fish, and Betta fish are not supposed to have friends; they are supposed to fight. This 102-page book can be enjoyed on several levels. Young children will enjoy swimming with Arty to find the wise snail to ask about friendship. Older children will get the jokes. Along the way, Arty meets a slug who becomes his friend, although it takes Arty a little while to realize it. The artwork by author-illustrator Penny Schneider was full of expression and movement and fun! Back matter includes "bloopers" and fun facts about both Betta fish and slugs. I received a digital copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Amy Houts, author of In the Witch’s House
April 27, 2024
What a wonderful and witty story about Arty’s journey to becoming and being a friend. The author and illustrator is a talented story teller and artist whose beautiful and vibrant illustrations perfectly capture the characters’ emotions. Children of all ages will enjoy this heartwarming and funny book. In addition to a cute story and masterful illustrations, this graphic novel brings so many more surprises with its interactive activities for young readers and artists, it’s fun facts about Betta fish and Sea Slugs, and, best of all, it’s witty bloopers at the end of the book. What a creative and hilarious way to end this adorable story.
April 29, 2024
I read this graphic novel with three different hats - special educator, art teacher, and parent. Arty checked all boxes for all of my hats! I even read this book to a class of high school students! The main character, Arty, is funny and engaging. The writing and drawing prompts engage the reader to become part of the story. The characters, the setting, the story line, and the illustrations all work together perfectly to address a sometimes difficult topic - how to be a friend. This book is a must read! I would love to see Arty appear in more books to tackle difficult and teachable topics! I am an Arty fan!
August 30, 2024
Arty is a gem with the perfect blend of fun and charm. From the first page, the vibrant illustrations and playful storyline captivated my 4-year-old nephew's attention. The characters are adorably designed and brimming with personality, making them instantly lovable. We especially loved the humor that had us giggling. The colors are so vivid and engaging, it's like each page is a burst of joy that jumps right off the paper. Arty is a must-have for any children's library and a surefire hit for story time.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews