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Sashimi #1
Sashimi
He's funny. He's fresh. He's... a fishboy named SASHIMI!
A new graphic novel series from bestseller and Caldecott Medal winner Dan Santat.
In the town of Barnacle Bay, a creature lurks. He’s come from the ocean, in search of others like him.
To fit in with humans, Sashimi sneaks into an elementary school and pretends to be a student. But he’s clearly a fish out of water!
When Sashimi finds out the whole town is on the hunt for the Beast of Barnacle Bay—a creature who sounds a lot like Sashimi—hijinks ensue! Fortunately, with the help of a new friend and the class goldfish, Sashimi figures out a way to stay afloat.
Perfect for fans of Bad Guys and The Investigator series!
A new graphic novel series from bestseller and Caldecott Medal winner Dan Santat.
In the town of Barnacle Bay, a creature lurks. He’s come from the ocean, in search of others like him.
To fit in with humans, Sashimi sneaks into an elementary school and pretends to be a student. But he’s clearly a fish out of water!
When Sashimi finds out the whole town is on the hunt for the Beast of Barnacle Bay—a creature who sounds a lot like Sashimi—hijinks ensue! Fortunately, with the help of a new friend and the class goldfish, Sashimi figures out a way to stay afloat.
Perfect for fans of Bad Guys and The Investigator series!
160 pages, Hardcover
Published April 14, 2026
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January 7, 2026
Book Riot’s Most Anticipated Books of 2026:
Sashimi is a fishboy. He’s never met his parents or anyone who looked like him. Rumors of a strange beast bring him to Barnacle Bay, where he tries to pass for human at the local school to gather intel. Students question his fishy smell, wet skin, and close connection with Kevin the class fish. But Sashimi is undeterred, hoping the beast might be a long lost relative. Plenty of slap fights, names like Taco Fart and Brocano, and the etymology of the term “poop deck” are peppered in throughout this graphic novel about his journey to find out. —Alison Doherty
Sashimi is a fishboy. He’s never met his parents or anyone who looked like him. Rumors of a strange beast bring him to Barnacle Bay, where he tries to pass for human at the local school to gather intel. Students question his fishy smell, wet skin, and close connection with Kevin the class fish. But Sashimi is undeterred, hoping the beast might be a long lost relative. Plenty of slap fights, names like Taco Fart and Brocano, and the etymology of the term “poop deck” are peppered in throughout this graphic novel about his journey to find out. —Alison Doherty
August 20, 2025
What happens when a kid sea monster wants to find others of their kind. He had heard of a town that has an annual festival about a sea monster, so sneaks into the school. Finds clothes in the lost and found, and enrolls in the class, so he can search from there.
His disguise is not all that great, and he has trouble making friends, except for with the class gold fish. As the days progress, he does make a friend, albeit a reluctant one.
And, like a fish out of water, Sashimi has a lot to learn.
This is a cute book about friendship, and being the new kid, as well as being the lonely kid. It is the first book in what will be a series. The pictures are fun. The story is funny, and the highjinks are silly. What more could you want from a book?
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review. This book is being published on the 14th of April 2026.
His disguise is not all that great, and he has trouble making friends, except for with the class gold fish. As the days progress, he does make a friend, albeit a reluctant one.
And, like a fish out of water, Sashimi has a lot to learn.
This is a cute book about friendship, and being the new kid, as well as being the lonely kid. It is the first book in what will be a series. The pictures are fun. The story is funny, and the highjinks are silly. What more could you want from a book?
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review. This book is being published on the 14th of April 2026.
September 17, 2025
Book 1 in a new lower MG graphic novel series by the amazing @dsantat
🐠
In the town of Barnacle Bay there is a new boy in town named Sashimi Sashimi. He’s fresh from the ocean, trying to fit in with the other kids, pretending to be a student at the local elementary school. When the town starts hunting for the Beast of Barnacle Bay, a creature who looks a lot like Sashimi, he gets help from a new, yet reluctant, friend at school.
🐠
I’m very much of the mindset that Dan can do no wrong. He’s such a great author, illustrator and graphic novelist. This will be a big hit for fans of Bad Guys and The Investigators. It releases April 14!
🐠
In the town of Barnacle Bay there is a new boy in town named Sashimi Sashimi. He’s fresh from the ocean, trying to fit in with the other kids, pretending to be a student at the local elementary school. When the town starts hunting for the Beast of Barnacle Bay, a creature who looks a lot like Sashimi, he gets help from a new, yet reluctant, friend at school.
🐠
I’m very much of the mindset that Dan can do no wrong. He’s such a great author, illustrator and graphic novelist. This will be a big hit for fans of Bad Guys and The Investigators. It releases April 14!
February 16, 2026
Can’t wait to buy this for the kids at work, they’re going to love it, especially those who love Diary of A Wimpy Kid or Dogman. It was super goofy. Sashimi navigates being the new one in class (secretly as a fish), dealing with bullies, and making friends. I had a 7 year in my family read the first 60 pages, and he couldn’t stop giggling while reading. Can’t wait to request the second ARC!
October 11, 2025
I was able to access an ARC of this book. I really enjoyed this lighthearted story of friendship. The main character is searching for someone like him and along the way he makes his first friend. There are lots of laughs all throughout this book. I also love that although the main character is different and is desperate to find someone like him so he does not feel alone, he still stays true to himself. This is a fun, adventure story with a little mystery sprinkled in but it also has valuable life skills and lessons woven throughout. Dan Santat did a great job of being entertaining while also giving kids lessons on staying true to yourself, friendship and bullying. I know my students will love this series. Looking forward to book two next fall.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
ARC provided by the publisher
Strange things are happening in Barnacle Bay! When Sashimi comes to shore, grabs a hoodie, and joins Miss Wilcox's classroom, the students ask a lot of questions, but don't get a lot of answers. Joey is assigned to show Shashimi around, but since he is new himself and a target of Billy's bullying, he's reluctant to be seen with a bug eyed student who sweats a lot. This, of course, is how Sashimi, who is really a fish boy, breathes. While he's living in the school and talking to Kevin, the class goldfish, he feels like he should investigate the Beast of Barnacle Bay, since there is a huge festival surrounding the creature. He has a bad experience at a grocery store with some high octane sugar soda and is kicked out after he goes nuts; Billy is there and takes him home to meet his grandfather. Poopdeck Pete is obsessed with the Beast, and gives tours of the bay. Sashimi tells Joey the truth after an incident where Sashimi tries to flush himself down the toilet: he is a fish boy and was chased ashore by Joey's grandfather, and has been living in the school. After meeting with Ben at the local history museum, Sashimi decides to enter the contest to catch the Beast, since there's a $10,000 prize. There is all kinds of drama in the community's participation in this, but in the end, Sashimi donates one of his own scales to the museum, and is rewarded with $500. He donates this money to the school, where budget cuts have been rife, and settles into life in Barnacle Bay. Poopdeck Pete's boat tours experience a resurgence with the interest in the creature, so Joey is happy as well. More adventures, perhaps ones including the very suspiciously damp Ben, are heading to shore.
Santat's illustrations are always a delight, and he brings Sashimi to life in an engaging way. There's even an informational diagram of how Sashimi breathes; of course, there are extra laughs since he is depicted in tighty whities! The use of the hood to hide his more defining aquatic features is inspired, since young readers these days live in hoodies, often (to my chagrin) with the hoods up. Santat must have a deep and abiding interest in the sea, since his 2022 Aquanaut also involves ocean life living on land. Sashimi is much happier and less traumatic than that graphic novel!
Sashimi gets himself involved in many ridiculous situations, which makes this a perfect book for older readers (who pretend to be too sophisticated for jokes about Poopdeck Pete) to read to younger ones. Sashimi gets revenge on Billy in a spitball fight, he has a massive sugar buzz and subsequent crash, and we get snarky but informative inserts about what a poop deck is named that and how Sashimi is able to live on land. The illustration style is colorful and unique, and will appeal to older readers who have been raised on Santat's picture books like Are We There Yet, Beekle, and After the Fall.
Dav Pilkey gets a shout-out in the dedication, which makes perfect sense, since readers of Captain Underpants and Dogman will be thrilled with Sashimi's odd adventures. Santat worked with Tom Angleberger on Princess Pit Stop, and must have absorbed some of Angleberger's Two-Headed Chicken Energy. I'm looking forward to the further adventures of this intrepid fish boy, and hope that he and Joey are able to calm Billy down quite a bit and can continue to support their struggling school.
The box that the publisher sent with the ARC was delightful, and contained a helpful water bottle (so Sashimi can keep breathing), a sticker, poster, and small container of "fish flakes" that I have on good authority actually contains Swedish fish candy!
Strange things are happening in Barnacle Bay! When Sashimi comes to shore, grabs a hoodie, and joins Miss Wilcox's classroom, the students ask a lot of questions, but don't get a lot of answers. Joey is assigned to show Shashimi around, but since he is new himself and a target of Billy's bullying, he's reluctant to be seen with a bug eyed student who sweats a lot. This, of course, is how Sashimi, who is really a fish boy, breathes. While he's living in the school and talking to Kevin, the class goldfish, he feels like he should investigate the Beast of Barnacle Bay, since there is a huge festival surrounding the creature. He has a bad experience at a grocery store with some high octane sugar soda and is kicked out after he goes nuts; Billy is there and takes him home to meet his grandfather. Poopdeck Pete is obsessed with the Beast, and gives tours of the bay. Sashimi tells Joey the truth after an incident where Sashimi tries to flush himself down the toilet: he is a fish boy and was chased ashore by Joey's grandfather, and has been living in the school. After meeting with Ben at the local history museum, Sashimi decides to enter the contest to catch the Beast, since there's a $10,000 prize. There is all kinds of drama in the community's participation in this, but in the end, Sashimi donates one of his own scales to the museum, and is rewarded with $500. He donates this money to the school, where budget cuts have been rife, and settles into life in Barnacle Bay. Poopdeck Pete's boat tours experience a resurgence with the interest in the creature, so Joey is happy as well. More adventures, perhaps ones including the very suspiciously damp Ben, are heading to shore.
Santat's illustrations are always a delight, and he brings Sashimi to life in an engaging way. There's even an informational diagram of how Sashimi breathes; of course, there are extra laughs since he is depicted in tighty whities! The use of the hood to hide his more defining aquatic features is inspired, since young readers these days live in hoodies, often (to my chagrin) with the hoods up. Santat must have a deep and abiding interest in the sea, since his 2022 Aquanaut also involves ocean life living on land. Sashimi is much happier and less traumatic than that graphic novel!
Sashimi gets himself involved in many ridiculous situations, which makes this a perfect book for older readers (who pretend to be too sophisticated for jokes about Poopdeck Pete) to read to younger ones. Sashimi gets revenge on Billy in a spitball fight, he has a massive sugar buzz and subsequent crash, and we get snarky but informative inserts about what a poop deck is named that and how Sashimi is able to live on land. The illustration style is colorful and unique, and will appeal to older readers who have been raised on Santat's picture books like Are We There Yet, Beekle, and After the Fall.
Dav Pilkey gets a shout-out in the dedication, which makes perfect sense, since readers of Captain Underpants and Dogman will be thrilled with Sashimi's odd adventures. Santat worked with Tom Angleberger on Princess Pit Stop, and must have absorbed some of Angleberger's Two-Headed Chicken Energy. I'm looking forward to the further adventures of this intrepid fish boy, and hope that he and Joey are able to calm Billy down quite a bit and can continue to support their struggling school.
The box that the publisher sent with the ARC was delightful, and contained a helpful water bottle (so Sashimi can keep breathing), a sticker, poster, and small container of "fish flakes" that I have on good authority actually contains Swedish fish candy!
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March 9, 2026See my full review here: https://yabookscentral.com/sashimi/
SASHIMI is a silly, comedic graphic novel about school, friendship, and fitting in. Sashimi is a fishboy that finds himself in a school when he runs away from a pirate. At school, Sashimi is a fish out of water (literally and figuratively). As he navigates bullies and difficulty fitting in, he soon finds his people and friends.
What I loved: This a clever graphic novel with relatable themes to middle grade readers. Feeling different, dealing with bullying, and making new friends are experiences that many children will find familiar. In this book, all of these situations are infused with humor as Sashimi is navigating these new experiences in his own way. He finds a way to stand up to bullies, understands the humor of other kids, and finds a group of friends who are also a bit different.
The story moves quickly and is perfectly suited to the graphic novel format. There is a focus on the images to tell the story with sparse call-outs and easily attributable speech bubbles, so it is easy to read and follow along. The images are well done with plenty of color and detail. Children will find a lot of humor in Sashimi's experiences, the jokes he tells, and the things he does (as well as the name of the poopdeck, which is explained). This is a great start to a new series!
There are also some interesting themes about food sources and humans around nature/fish-eating and school budgets. The school has been impacted by a lot of budget cuts that means the whole class shares one textbook, which makes learning challenging. When Sashimi donates a scale for money in the contest to catch the Beast, he turns the money around to get the school new textbooks.
Final verdict: SASHIMI is an engaging and humorous graphic novel about being different, friendship, and school challenges that middle grade readers are sure to enjoy! Can't wait to see more from this relatable and funny series!
Please note that I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
SASHIMI is a silly, comedic graphic novel about school, friendship, and fitting in. Sashimi is a fishboy that finds himself in a school when he runs away from a pirate. At school, Sashimi is a fish out of water (literally and figuratively). As he navigates bullies and difficulty fitting in, he soon finds his people and friends.
What I loved: This a clever graphic novel with relatable themes to middle grade readers. Feeling different, dealing with bullying, and making new friends are experiences that many children will find familiar. In this book, all of these situations are infused with humor as Sashimi is navigating these new experiences in his own way. He finds a way to stand up to bullies, understands the humor of other kids, and finds a group of friends who are also a bit different.
The story moves quickly and is perfectly suited to the graphic novel format. There is a focus on the images to tell the story with sparse call-outs and easily attributable speech bubbles, so it is easy to read and follow along. The images are well done with plenty of color and detail. Children will find a lot of humor in Sashimi's experiences, the jokes he tells, and the things he does (as well as the name of the poopdeck, which is explained). This is a great start to a new series!
There are also some interesting themes about food sources and humans around nature/fish-eating and school budgets. The school has been impacted by a lot of budget cuts that means the whole class shares one textbook, which makes learning challenging. When Sashimi donates a scale for money in the contest to catch the Beast, he turns the money around to get the school new textbooks.
Final verdict: SASHIMI is an engaging and humorous graphic novel about being different, friendship, and school challenges that middle grade readers are sure to enjoy! Can't wait to see more from this relatable and funny series!
Please note that I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Dan Santat’s newest graphic novel is goofy fun from beginning to end. Readers will have to suspend all disbelief and buy into a fish-merman-axolotl type creature called Sashimi joining an elementary classroom as the new kid who just happens to sweat a lot (has something to do with getting his oxygen from all the water he drinks), smells like fish (cuz he is one, sort of) and has dead, hollow eyes (like a fish on a plate or something??? Wasn’t really explained). Paired up with Joey for the usual new kid helper thing, Sashimi flounders his way thru a building full of school bullies, lunch and red levers on the wall that start fires when pulled, or something like that. Throw in an annual town wide search for the dreaded Beast of Barnacle Bay who may or may not have some similarities to Sashimi and elementary readers will be laughing their way through another silly series along the same lines as Pilkey’s Captain Underpants.
If you are looking for fun plus a little something “more,” Santat does include two fact-giving pages on how fish use their gills and another giving the background of the very real poop decks (and yes, that does connect to the other kind of poop plus a major toilet swirlie). There are also positive friendship and new kid principles to be gleaned between laughs.
Great addition to any elementary library’s graphic novel section.
Target age: grade 1-4
Profanity: none
Violence: Some chasing, a few tricks and pranks and a grandpa determined to get his revenge on the Barnacle Beast
Representation: Sashimi’s classmates have diverse skin tones and body types…but only one looks like a sea creature in a hoodie
LBGTQ+: nothing noted
Thanks for the launch box with arc, water bottle, sticker and my own bottle of fish flakes, MacKids/Roaring Brook Press.
If you are looking for fun plus a little something “more,” Santat does include two fact-giving pages on how fish use their gills and another giving the background of the very real poop decks (and yes, that does connect to the other kind of poop plus a major toilet swirlie). There are also positive friendship and new kid principles to be gleaned between laughs.
Great addition to any elementary library’s graphic novel section.
Target age: grade 1-4
Profanity: none
Violence: Some chasing, a few tricks and pranks and a grandpa determined to get his revenge on the Barnacle Beast
Representation: Sashimi’s classmates have diverse skin tones and body types…but only one looks like a sea creature in a hoodie
LBGTQ+: nothing noted
Thanks for the launch box with arc, water bottle, sticker and my own bottle of fish flakes, MacKids/Roaring Brook Press.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Sashimi is the new kid at school, and he is different from everyone else in ways he cannot divulge. With perpetually sweaty skin, dead eyes, and a fishy odor, Sashimi stands out and often finds himself the target of bullies for the fact that he conforms to neither the behavioral nor the appearance standards of society. But Sashimi came to Barnacle Bay for a reason: to find the mysterious and elusive Beast of Barnacle Bay—a creature who just might be like him. In his efforts to track down the Beast, however, Sashimi discovers that perhaps fitting in comes down to more than just outward appearances.
This comedic and lighthearted graphic novel explores the universal desire of wanting to belong through the unexpected perspective of a character who is half fish and half human. Silly interactions that highlight Sashimi’s lack of cultural awareness draw readers’ attention to often overlooked experiences that seem normal simply because they are the status quo. Light instances of potty humor and awkward interactions enhance the readability of this book for its target audience. Bright, cartoon-like illustrations bring the story to life and invite young readers into Sashimi’s narrative, propelling the novel in visual intrigue. Occasional asides offer some educational elements to the story and help readers better understand the author’s perspective in designing Sashimi as he is. Heartfelt explorations of friendship and acceptance are embedded within this entertaining and amusing narrative, and the novel is left open for a sequel. This is a positive addition to graphic novel collections for middle grade readers.
This comedic and lighthearted graphic novel explores the universal desire of wanting to belong through the unexpected perspective of a character who is half fish and half human. Silly interactions that highlight Sashimi’s lack of cultural awareness draw readers’ attention to often overlooked experiences that seem normal simply because they are the status quo. Light instances of potty humor and awkward interactions enhance the readability of this book for its target audience. Bright, cartoon-like illustrations bring the story to life and invite young readers into Sashimi’s narrative, propelling the novel in visual intrigue. Occasional asides offer some educational elements to the story and help readers better understand the author’s perspective in designing Sashimi as he is. Heartfelt explorations of friendship and acceptance are embedded within this entertaining and amusing narrative, and the novel is left open for a sequel. This is a positive addition to graphic novel collections for middle grade readers.
December 3, 2025
Dan Santat has been one of my favorite picture book authors and illustrators since reading The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend to my classroom in 2017. So I was very excited when I saw that he was starting a new middle grade/elementary school graphic novel series next year. Sashimi is a fishboy who's never met his biological parents or anyone who looked like him. He was raised my mermaids in the sea (even though he's basically the opposite with a fish head and humanoid body). He hears a rumor about a beast of Barnacle Bay that sounds kind of like him and decides to go to the small, seaside town to investigate. To learn more, he poses as a human elementary school student. And he basically fools everyone, even though they have questions about his fishy smell, friendship with Kevin the class fish, and choice of fish flakes for a snack. He deals with bullies, drinks sugar soda for the first time, and explores the world on land. He might (or might not) find the beast of Barnacle Bay ... but he discovers something that is, perhaps, even more important. His first best friend. The book is hilarious with lots of fish puns, poop jokes, and slapstick humor. I think reluctant readers and fans of the wimpy kid & dogman books will fall in love!
Thanks to Netgalley for giving me an advanced review copy in exchange for my honest review.
Thanks to Netgalley for giving me an advanced review copy in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways. All comments are my own.
What a fun read. We meet Sashimi a fish-boy who ends up in the town of Barnacle Bay looking for people like him. He first he meet Kevin, a goldfish. Spoiler here Kevin is a girl but nobody knew how to determine that. Poor Kevin. When the story begins Sashimi is starting school. He tries to befriend Joey. Joey is bullied because was the new kid before Sashimi. Joey doesn't want anything to do with Sashimi. As the story progresses we also meet Tako a little purple octopus, Joey's grandfather Poopdeck Pete, and Ben the owner of the Beast of the Barnacle Bay Museum.
In the book we learn that friendship can exist when we least expect it. We learn that sometimes promises we make to one person might conflict with our friendship with another. But true friends will find a way to survive.
Additionally this gives us a couple of learning moments, don't worry each is only on one page. (I know, really learning things.) Like how fish breathe/how Sashimi breathes. What's a poop deck. (Ok I knew it was on the boat but that was all.) What's a fish-boy compared to a mermaid. (Alright I had never heard of a fish-boy before this book, good to know the difference.) And I loved the map of Barnacle Bay.
What a fun read. We meet Sashimi a fish-boy who ends up in the town of Barnacle Bay looking for people like him. He first he meet Kevin, a goldfish. Spoiler here Kevin is a girl but nobody knew how to determine that. Poor Kevin. When the story begins Sashimi is starting school. He tries to befriend Joey. Joey is bullied because was the new kid before Sashimi. Joey doesn't want anything to do with Sashimi. As the story progresses we also meet Tako a little purple octopus, Joey's grandfather Poopdeck Pete, and Ben the owner of the Beast of the Barnacle Bay Museum.
In the book we learn that friendship can exist when we least expect it. We learn that sometimes promises we make to one person might conflict with our friendship with another. But true friends will find a way to survive.
Additionally this gives us a couple of learning moments, don't worry each is only on one page. (I know, really learning things.) Like how fish breathe/how Sashimi breathes. What's a poop deck. (Ok I knew it was on the boat but that was all.) What's a fish-boy compared to a mermaid. (Alright I had never heard of a fish-boy before this book, good to know the difference.) And I loved the map of Barnacle Bay.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
🏴☠️⚓️ Ahoy, matey! A perfect reading-day treasure!
This book arrived on exactly the right day—when it was -1 outside, I had my computer-loving grandson with me, and we were searching for something fun to do… then this box showed up on our doorstep like buried treasure. 📦
A FISHBOY NAMED ….SASHIMI? Oh my—A FISHBOY wearing an orange hoodie (boys laughing already) and the humor in this book hooked my grandson right away! 🐟😂 A. is in third grade and loves graphic novels, and this one was a total hit. It’s funny, full of mystery, and had him laughing out loud. He’s already excited to take it to school for silent reading—always a win!
I also loved the deeper messages woven into the story: creating friendships, standing up to bullies, being yourself, and celebrating what makes you different. But above all? This is another book that truly makes reading FUN—and that’s the real treasure. 🏴☠️✨
Thank you @mackidsbooks @dansantat for this amazing gift box with the graphic novel, Water Bottle, sticker, and fish food (aka Swedish Fish 🐟). What a perfect way to turn a freezing day into a cozy, joyful reading adventure.
ALL opinions expressed are our own.
This book arrived on exactly the right day—when it was -1 outside, I had my computer-loving grandson with me, and we were searching for something fun to do… then this box showed up on our doorstep like buried treasure. 📦
A FISHBOY NAMED ….SASHIMI? Oh my—A FISHBOY wearing an orange hoodie (boys laughing already) and the humor in this book hooked my grandson right away! 🐟😂 A. is in third grade and loves graphic novels, and this one was a total hit. It’s funny, full of mystery, and had him laughing out loud. He’s already excited to take it to school for silent reading—always a win!
I also loved the deeper messages woven into the story: creating friendships, standing up to bullies, being yourself, and celebrating what makes you different. But above all? This is another book that truly makes reading FUN—and that’s the real treasure. 🏴☠️✨
Thank you @mackidsbooks @dansantat for this amazing gift box with the graphic novel, Water Bottle, sticker, and fish food (aka Swedish Fish 🐟). What a perfect way to turn a freezing day into a cozy, joyful reading adventure.
ALL opinions expressed are our own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A fish walks into an elementary school and tries to pass as a regular kid. That's the whole premise. And it is just plain, silly fun.
My nine-year-old and I started reading Sashimi together, but somewhere around the spitball scene she just... took the book out of my hands. I was lingering on the illustrations (I'm a big fan of Santat's work), and she was done waiting for me. She finished it on her own and immediately came back with her review: "I really liked that there was a fish who was pretending to be a boy."
Honestly? Same. The story is silly and warm and moves fast, and the illustrations are doing so much fun work that adults will find plenty to love even while the kids are already three pages ahead. It is perfect for 2nd through 4th graders, especially the ones who need a book that gets out of its own way and just lets them have fun.
Thank you to Macmillan Children's Publishing Group / Roaring Brook Press and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
My nine-year-old and I started reading Sashimi together, but somewhere around the spitball scene she just... took the book out of my hands. I was lingering on the illustrations (I'm a big fan of Santat's work), and she was done waiting for me. She finished it on her own and immediately came back with her review: "I really liked that there was a fish who was pretending to be a boy."
Honestly? Same. The story is silly and warm and moves fast, and the illustrations are doing so much fun work that adults will find plenty to love even while the kids are already three pages ahead. It is perfect for 2nd through 4th graders, especially the ones who need a book that gets out of its own way and just lets them have fun.
Thank you to Macmillan Children's Publishing Group / Roaring Brook Press and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What happens when you’re a humanoid, orange-skinned, big-eyed fish creature raised by mermaids who sets off on a quest to find the legendary “Beast of Barnacle Bay,” hoping they might be someone just like you? Pure hilarity! Caldecott Medal-winning Dan Santat delivers another win in his middle-grade graphic novel series as young Sashimi embarks on an unforgettable adventure.
Join Sashimi as he searches for others like himself, makes new friends, flees from a villainous pirate, and tries to keep his true identity a secret—all with the help of his hilarious fish sidekick. Will Sashimi finally find what he’s searching for among the humans?
Perfect for middle graders who grew up loving Dog Man, Big Nate, and Captain Underpants, this graphic novel is packed with humor, heart, and action. It’s a must-read for adventurous young graphic novel enthusiasts or reluctant readers!
Join Sashimi as he searches for others like himself, makes new friends, flees from a villainous pirate, and tries to keep his true identity a secret—all with the help of his hilarious fish sidekick. Will Sashimi finally find what he’s searching for among the humans?
Perfect for middle graders who grew up loving Dog Man, Big Nate, and Captain Underpants, this graphic novel is packed with humor, heart, and action. It’s a must-read for adventurous young graphic novel enthusiasts or reluctant readers!
February 23, 2026
The freshest fish has just swum into town, and my kids absolutely gobbled this one up—no soy sauce required. Bonus: it cost less than a sushi dinner!
Sashimi is the tale of a fish boy on a mission to find someone just like him. He heads to a mysterious bay where a legendary beast lurks.
After enrolling in the local school, Sashimi befriends Kevin the goldfish and another new friend whose grandfather is totally hooked on finding the mythical creature.
Will Sashimi reel in the truth about the beast that hasn’t been seen in decades? The town even offers a cash prize for proof—now that’s some serious bait.
Kids will love the detective-style clues hidden in the illustrations. Can they spot where the creature might be hiding? It’s a real page-turner (or fin-flipper).
Thank you @NetGalley and @MacmillanChildrens for the advanced digital copy!
Sashimi is the tale of a fish boy on a mission to find someone just like him. He heads to a mysterious bay where a legendary beast lurks.
After enrolling in the local school, Sashimi befriends Kevin the goldfish and another new friend whose grandfather is totally hooked on finding the mythical creature.
Will Sashimi reel in the truth about the beast that hasn’t been seen in decades? The town even offers a cash prize for proof—now that’s some serious bait.
Kids will love the detective-style clues hidden in the illustrations. Can they spot where the creature might be hiding? It’s a real page-turner (or fin-flipper).
Thank you @NetGalley and @MacmillanChildrens for the advanced digital copy!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me an ARC to read for review.
“Rode the wrong bus…fizzy water and fart apples…a raccoon and a unicorn…” This book feels like a mad fever dream, and something my students would LOVE! From a female fish named Kevin, to Poopdeck Pete, and a fishboy student named Sashimi Sashimi…these are characters middle graders will love. It’s a teacher’s worst nightmare to lose a student on a field trip, but an absolute adventure for a kid. The illustrations in the graphic novel will definitely keep young readers engaged. Looking forward to adding to my library. Sashimi and the Field Trip of Doom is a delightful blend of humor, silliness and adventure that will captivate middle graders readers. I would have given this a 3.5 but rounded up to 4 as Goodreads doesn’t have half stars.
“Rode the wrong bus…fizzy water and fart apples…a raccoon and a unicorn…” This book feels like a mad fever dream, and something my students would LOVE! From a female fish named Kevin, to Poopdeck Pete, and a fishboy student named Sashimi Sashimi…these are characters middle graders will love. It’s a teacher’s worst nightmare to lose a student on a field trip, but an absolute adventure for a kid. The illustrations in the graphic novel will definitely keep young readers engaged. Looking forward to adding to my library. Sashimi and the Field Trip of Doom is a delightful blend of humor, silliness and adventure that will captivate middle graders readers. I would have given this a 3.5 but rounded up to 4 as Goodreads doesn’t have half stars.
August 31, 2025
Solid gold. Solid Santat. Solid graphic novel. Solid reach for the intended audience. Solid color choice. Solid humor. Solid main character. And spectacular that we will be able to meet Sashimi again because it'll be a series.
First off, I challenge you to find a person who doesn't love Santat's illustration style. It's as recognizable as it is entertaining. Second, the humor is spot on, a fish boy going to school, trying to make friends, solving a mystery of the beast of Barnacle Bay with his newfound (not/but really) friend and the other school pet Kevin, an unlikely name for a girl fish.
It was a delightful romp that I can't wait to recommend over and over and over and over again.
First off, I challenge you to find a person who doesn't love Santat's illustration style. It's as recognizable as it is entertaining. Second, the humor is spot on, a fish boy going to school, trying to make friends, solving a mystery of the beast of Barnacle Bay with his newfound (not/but really) friend and the other school pet Kevin, an unlikely name for a girl fish.
It was a delightful romp that I can't wait to recommend over and over and over and over again.
September 23, 2025
This book is a winner! From the amazing mind and artistic hand of Dan Santat, we meet Sashimi Sashimi. He’s an endearing, sweaty fishboy who attempts covert classroom integration at Barnacle Bay Elementary. He befriends (reluctant) Joey, a boy who is often bullied and coincidentally the grandson of a pirate-y curmudgeon on the hunt to prove the existence of the elusive Beast of Barnacle Bay. I loved the illustrations and coloring, the humor and overall arc. The side characters are a hoot and Sashimi is a star. I can’t wait to read more about his adventures in future series installments (yay!). I’ll be enthusiastically recommending this to all young lovers of graphic novels. Thank you to NetGalley for the digital ARC. What a treat!
November 25, 2025
Fun and hilarious new graphic novel series by Dan Santat.
In the town of Barnacle Bay, a fishboy named Sashimi tries to hide in an elementary school. He makes friends with the class fish, tries to make a friend by standing up to a bully, and rescues Tako from the grocery store. All he wants is to find his family, so he joins the hunt for the Beast of Barnacle Bay.
The book is laugh out loud funny with its puns and jokes. Sashimi is so relatable as he tries to fit in while making new friends. Readers will gasp and chuckle as Sashimi practically gives himself away each time. Luckily, his friends are there to save him.
Sprinkled with interesting facts and diagrams about ocean creatures.
In the town of Barnacle Bay, a fishboy named Sashimi tries to hide in an elementary school. He makes friends with the class fish, tries to make a friend by standing up to a bully, and rescues Tako from the grocery store. All he wants is to find his family, so he joins the hunt for the Beast of Barnacle Bay.
The book is laugh out loud funny with its puns and jokes. Sashimi is so relatable as he tries to fit in while making new friends. Readers will gasp and chuckle as Sashimi practically gives himself away each time. Luckily, his friends are there to save him.
Sprinkled with interesting facts and diagrams about ocean creatures.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I received an advance copy of this book for review.
My 12 year old and I both read this separately. He mostly likes to reread the same few series over and over again but was willing to branch out for this one and found it funny and engaging. I think this will definitely be a good option for reluctant readers due to its short length, quick pace, and humor. The author of Dog Man endorsed it and I think this will find a similar audience.
I am not usually into stories in this vein but this one worked well for me! It didn't have too much potty humor and there were funny and compelling elements. There's zaniness and quirkiness but not so much that it's too off putting. There's a bit of intrigue leading into the next book (coming in September) and I am curious what comes next!
My 12 year old and I both read this separately. He mostly likes to reread the same few series over and over again but was willing to branch out for this one and found it funny and engaging. I think this will definitely be a good option for reluctant readers due to its short length, quick pace, and humor. The author of Dog Man endorsed it and I think this will find a similar audience.
I am not usually into stories in this vein but this one worked well for me! It didn't have too much potty humor and there were funny and compelling elements. There's zaniness and quirkiness but not so much that it's too off putting. There's a bit of intrigue leading into the next book (coming in September) and I am curious what comes next!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Graphic Novel
I received an electronic ARC from Macmillan Children's Publishing Group | Roaring Brook Press through NetGalley.
Santat introduces readers to his latest unusual main character. This new series starts with a new kid joining a class with a serious bullying problem. Sashimi is a bit unusual as he sweats a lot and has enormous eyes; he also drinks a lot of water. As the story unfolds, we learn why he came to Barnacle Bay and why he seems a bit naive about how life works in community.
The author offers an amusing look at this Fish Boy's life with tender undercurrents to share his loneliness and reason for seeking the local beast. Mid to upper elementary level readers will love the artwork and connect with the characters.
I received an electronic ARC from Macmillan Children's Publishing Group | Roaring Brook Press through NetGalley.
Santat introduces readers to his latest unusual main character. This new series starts with a new kid joining a class with a serious bullying problem. Sashimi is a bit unusual as he sweats a lot and has enormous eyes; he also drinks a lot of water. As the story unfolds, we learn why he came to Barnacle Bay and why he seems a bit naive about how life works in community.
The author offers an amusing look at this Fish Boy's life with tender undercurrents to share his loneliness and reason for seeking the local beast. Mid to upper elementary level readers will love the artwork and connect with the characters.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
It felt like this book wasn't sure what it wanted to be: graphic novel aimed for middle-grade readers (4-7th grade), tongue-in-cheek graphic novel for teachers (similar to Shrek), or a hodge podge of stuff. There were pausing points for learning, bullying and being an upstander, and an urban legend about a beast. At multiple points while reading, I found myself asking, "what am I reading?" The story seemed disjointed.
There were points that were entertaining, like Sashimi going to the grocery store, but overall, I did not enjoy reading this book. I'm not sure I was the intended audience, but I wouldn't buy it for my students or my children.
There were points that were entertaining, like Sashimi going to the grocery store, but overall, I did not enjoy reading this book. I'm not sure I was the intended audience, but I wouldn't buy it for my students or my children.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
👦🏻review: I always auto-read Dan Santat’s books because he has been effortlessly entertaining and inspiring young readers to read more. This one is another awesome graphic novel for reluctant elementary students to read his fascinating storytelling and enjoy his illustrations. This one didn’t disappoint because the story has touched upon emotions, friendships, relationships and being a newbie in a new place. The pace is fast, funny, a bit of sarcasm and finally emotional being. The illustrations, dialogues and colorful images made this graphic novel a blockbuster. I shared this with a friend and even he enjoyed this one too. 👍👍
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Dan Santat launches a fantastic new graphic novel series that has content perfect for advanced younger readers and still engaging for older elementary/middle grade students. Funny and visually appealing, this story follows Sashimi as he searches for connection, faces some hilarious mishaps, and builds new friendships. I especially enjoyed the conversations with the class goldfish and the subtle humor for adult readers. I’ll definitely be adding this to my classroom and look forward to the sequel coming out later this year. My students are going to devour this series.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley/Roaring Brook Press in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley/Roaring Brook Press in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for the ARC through NetGalley.
With a name like Sashimi, how could you resist reading this book? In this book, we meet a new kid at school, Sashimi. As with many new kid stories, he seems weird and doesn't quite fit in. Though it's not just because he's new - it's because he's a fishboy who is looking for a relative. When Sashimi's classmate Joey is told to show the new kid around, they clash. Through a series of events, Sashimi learns more about his relative The Beast, and finds some friends along the way. Looking forward to seeing more books in this series.
With a name like Sashimi, how could you resist reading this book? In this book, we meet a new kid at school, Sashimi. As with many new kid stories, he seems weird and doesn't quite fit in. Though it's not just because he's new - it's because he's a fishboy who is looking for a relative. When Sashimi's classmate Joey is told to show the new kid around, they clash. Through a series of events, Sashimi learns more about his relative The Beast, and finds some friends along the way. Looking forward to seeing more books in this series.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I haven't laughed this hard at a graphic novel in a long time. I read this with my 5 year old, and we could not stop giggling.
Some of our favorite quotes:
"We're finishing each other's...Taco Farts!'
"Next time, I'll hop on yer back and crush ya with me butt cheeks!"
I quickly fell in love with the weirdness of Sashimi, his girl sidekick named Kevin, the silent octopus named Tako, and the mysteriously moist museum curator. I can't wait to see where this series goes, and I'm thankful I got an early copy from Netgalley.
Some of our favorite quotes:
"We're finishing each other's...Taco Farts!'
"Next time, I'll hop on yer back and crush ya with me butt cheeks!"
I quickly fell in love with the weirdness of Sashimi, his girl sidekick named Kevin, the silent octopus named Tako, and the mysteriously moist museum curator. I can't wait to see where this series goes, and I'm thankful I got an early copy from Netgalley.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a silly, goofy series starter from Dan Santat that is sure to be a big hit with early middle grade readers. Sashimi is a fish boy -- half fish, half boy but not like a Mermaid, the other way around. He wanders out from the ocean and finds his way to school. Trying to fit in isn't easy for anyone, but especially when you're secretly a fish. This book is really silly with a classic Dan Santat style of illustrations that works really well here.
Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book!
Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
4.5 stars rounded up. Santat has done it again. Sashimi is the first graphic novel in a new series. The story is funny. The pictures are vibrant,’ and it’s the perfect length. This book is a joy to read.
Sashimi is a story of friendship, being you (even if that means embracing your weirdness), and folklore- aka The Beast of Barnacle Bay.
I highly recommend this series to graphic novel fans, fans of silliness, and those looking for a fun read. Book 2 comes out 9/26!
Thank you Roaring Brook Press and MacKids for sharing a fun read w me. Also, the “fish food” is delicious. 😉
Sashimi is a story of friendship, being you (even if that means embracing your weirdness), and folklore- aka The Beast of Barnacle Bay.
I highly recommend this series to graphic novel fans, fans of silliness, and those looking for a fun read. Book 2 comes out 9/26!
Thank you Roaring Brook Press and MacKids for sharing a fun read w me. Also, the “fish food” is delicious. 😉
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I just read this book courtesy of NetGally. I adored this book. This was one of the funniest middle school graphic novels that I have read. My third grade son will like it, middle schoolers will like it, teachers will like it - there are teacher jokes (budget cuts!). This book was highly entertaining. Moments of friendship, fear, adventure, and lots of humor. Loved Tako and Kevin being included in the character line up. Really curious to see where book 2 will take things.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Sashimi is a wild and goofy romp of a graphic novel. The humor is gross and fish based, the action is silly and quick, and the characters are quick and sarcastic, a recipe for hilarity. There's not much of a plot, but there doesn't need to be. I'm here for the jokes, and jokes there are. Occasionally the dry sarcasm feels slightly grown up, but who am I to guess what kids think is funny? Something about this absurd fish creature made me laugh out loud.
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