I Do Not Like Water

A Bank Street Best Book 2025
CCBC Choices 2025

★ “This is a refreshingly unsentimental and matter-of-fact take on being different, devoid of heavy-handed moralizing or intervention from adult characters. The children’s interpersonal dynamics and body language are left for young readers to absorb and ponder, and they’ll linger over both text and art—and be heartened by Alf’s trajectory. A delightful celebration of acceptance in all its forms.” —Kirkus Reviews

“In this Swedish import by Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award–winning author-illustrator Lindström, Alf is a child who knows his own mind…Lindström’s quirky gouache-and-watercolor illustrations are full of subtle details that suggest the child is much more fascinated and absorbed by water than he proclaims. Alf cleverly finds a way to enjoy swimming with his friends and creatively keeps his head above water. A buoyant picture book about facing fears and staying true to oneself.” —Booklist

“Vividly relaying intense early experiences of pain and of pleasure, Lindström (The Bridge) portrays a child who is comfortable with their own feelings and resourceful enough to hold space for them.”—Publishers Weekly

“In this Swedish import by Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award–winning author-illustrator Lindström, Alf is a child who knows his own mind. Lindström’s quirky gouache-and-watercolor illustrations are full of subtle details… (a) buoyant picture book about facing fears and staying true to oneself.”—Booklist