AT THE WISH OF A FISH: A Russian Folktale

by J. Patrick Lewis (Adapter), Katya Krenina (Illustrator)

In this adaptation of a traditional Russian tale, a lazy fool catches an enchanted fish that promises him that every wish he ever makes will come true.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens

32 pages, Hardcover

First published May 1, 1999

About the author

J. Patrick Lewis is the current Children's Poet Laureate. He has written more than seventy children's books, including Once Upon a Tomb: Gravely Humorous Verses. J. Patrick Lewis lives in Ohio.

Reviews

[Laura Perry · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a story about a man, who is a bit of a goof-off. He even sleeps on an old wood stove. His brothers leave on a trip and he is expected to help their wives. One day he is collecting water and catches a fish. The fish promises him anything he desires if he releases him. The story is funny and easy to follow. The pictures are colorful and aid the words in telling the story.

[Diane · Rating 3 out of 5]

A lazy fool catches an enchanted fish that promises him that every wish he ever makes will come true — and he ends up with a palace and marrying the tsar’s daughter.

[Jen Wehage-Barrera · Rating 5 out of 5]

FOLKTALE #2 – At the Wish of a Fish by J. Patrick Lewis
Motif: A fish grants wishes

This adaptation of a Russian folktale follows the youngest of three brother’s named Emelya, who is considered the village fool. When fetching water for his sister-in-laws, he accidentally caught a magical fish (a pike to be exact) that offered to grant wishes to Emelya if he were to be released. As each wish was granted, the villagers became more concerned of Emelya’s powers to move inanimate objects eventually threatening violence to the foolish Emelya. Emelya was sent to the Tsar where he wishes for Mayra, the Tsar’s daughter, to fall in love with him. With more wishes of a home, food, intelligence, and acceptance Emelya and Mayra lived a royal and fulfilling life together. This folktale has a happy ending for the main character, which is satisfying for young readers. Unlike other folktales of wish granting, Emelya did not take advantage of the wishes out of greed, but more so to complete tasks asked of him. The text is simple and has some inconsistent rhyming patterns. It has a Russian setting along with Russian names, objects, and culturally specific details, which would likely need some explanation to a non-Russian reader. The pictures are large and well drawn with details that enhance the text. The picture sizes vary from half page, full page, to double page. I would recommend this story as part of a folktale unit of study focusing on cultures from around the world.

Target Audience: Ages 6 - 10

[Erin · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fool lets a fish go that he catches on accident. The fish gives him everything he asks for, if the man does it in the fish's name. Okay for preschool storytimes.

[Rani · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Emelya the simpleton saves a pike, he is richly rewarded in life. This folktale showcases the value of kindness and empathy.