Grippo the Friendly Shark
by
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Chapter One Grippo the Friendly Shark
His mother named him Grippo because since birth he’d always held tightly onto her fin, fearing he would be left behind. His father’s mouth was full of sharp gleaming teeth, teeth as big as a crocodile’s. His mother’s were just as big. He hoped he would grow up and look as ferocious as his parents and he looked forward to catching fish just like they did every day.
“Grippo,” his mother said. “You will have to learn to be big and mean, so why don’t you let go of my fin? Try to be like your brother and hunt for fish to eat.” “But Mom,” Grippo said. “I like the other fish. Besides, there’s always plenty left over after you catch something. I know I’ve got to learn to catch fish, but for now, is it ok to just watch you catch fish?” “Ok for now, Grippo, but you have to learn to be ferocious. I won’t be around forever,” his mother cautioned him.
Grippo enjoyed the fast ride he got when his mother sped through the water. He even liked the tight turns and occasional flips his mother did to catch a fish, or just to show him how to be agile.
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About the Book
This book contains danger and excitement surrounding the adventures of two unlikely friends, a fish, Grippo the Friendly Shark, and an animal, Danny the Dolphin. Their close friendship within the book demonstrates the theme of accepting others that may be different.
About the Author
Larry D. Kingsley, Author Larry has been writing short stories for about twenty years. Most of his works are rich with stories about his life growing up on a farm in northern New York State. He now resides in Cary, North Carolina, with his wife, Georgeanne, and their best friend, Archie the Dog. His stories have been featured in his hometown’s historical society publications and two anthologies of works published by The Writers Group Encore continuing education at North Carolina State University. Grippo the Friendly Shark was a story inspired by the children he tutors in the YMCA after-school program. He has also become the children’s chief storyteller, and he says, “I teach Imagination 101.” He believes children should develop a creative mind, and his hope is that stimulating their minds at an early age will help develop a lifetime of wonderment.
Roger Kammerer, Illustrator Roger Kammerer is an accomplished artist proficient in oils, acrylic, watercolor, pencil and pen, and ink. His work includes portraits, watercolors, pen and inks, and mural projects. Roger’s work can be found in numerous private and corporate collections in North Carolina and across the country. He has also been featured in various publications across the South. He says he “relishes the challenge of each new task” and hopes each work is an expression of beauty and something lasting.