Life Lessons: Marty’s Quest
In the vibrant, otherworldly realm of Swim: Shark of a Different Fin, we follow Marty—a shark born different—and his unlikely companion, a socially awkward fisherman—as they embark on a transformative journey beneath the waves.
While the story is accessible and whimsical on the surface, it dives deep into universal human struggles—belonging, self-worth, and the quiet courage it takes to stand apart.
Marty’s world is one of rejection and ridicule. Born with a severe physical difference and an unusually gentle heart, he fails to meet the brutal expectations of his great white shark lineage. Yet, it’s in this alienation that Swim finds its emotional power. Marty’s trials echo the very real experience of being different in a world that demands sameness.
At its core, Swim is a tribute to resilience. Marty doesn’t merely survive—he evolves. Again and again, he rises from humiliation, heartbreak, and physical limitation with growing purpose and determination. His journey reminds us that failure isn’t the end, but a call to rise stronger.
“The greatest lessons often come from the most unexpected places.”
The story also champions individuality. Marty’s so-called weakness—his deformed fin—is eventually revealed to be the very trait that redefines him. In a world built on fierce competition, his quiet strength and authenticity become the forces that carry him forward.
Marty’s bond with Harry—the brilliant but socially misaligned engineer he rescues from drowning—is equally moving. What begins as a chance encounter unfolds into a life-altering friendship that challenges both of them to grow. Their connection reveals the beauty of unexpected alliances and the profound impact of being truly seen.
Swim was born from deeply personal inspiration. It reflects the author’s own experience with loved ones who have faced tremendous adversity and emerged transformed. And its emotional undercurrent is carried by the music of Poodlehead, whose raw, cathartic sound mirrors the soul of Marty’s journey.
To discover the soundtrack behind the story, visit Poodlehead.com.
Want to uncover more life-changing insights from Marty’s journey?
Can you please let us know when the movie might come out?
Yes my kids love this story.
I’m 27, and I believe Marty is really inspiring
You could learn a lot from the lessons Marty and Harry reveal.
My sister had a car accident and this story is very inspiring. Thank you
I would like to know if I could work for you? I am an artist and graphic designer and would love to work on your projects. Please contact me if you will consider it. Thank you.
Sincerely, Bruce
I finally finished reading your book. It was so fantastic! Oh goodness gracious skylar, this is the greatest book I’ve ever read. Thank you thank you thank you thank you thank you!
I’ve been wondering, do you think a sequel will be forthcoming?. I have an idea for you. Please contact me.
Marty has a lot of great things going for him. These are very important lessons in life and are very transferable to our children. I’m from Russia and we can totally relate to this story. Can’t wait for the movie to come out!
My girlfriend would like to know how she can receive updates from you on a very constant basis.?
Could you tell me when the movie may be coming out? Are you taking interviews for The voice actors?
Hello everybody. I just went and signed up on Marty the Monster official on youtube. And I’m following your Facebook page. I can’t wait for the movie!
Life hold the secrets in so many hidden treasures!!!
I have learned so many things from the story. It is wonderfully educational and extremely empowering.
I’M IN LOVE WITH SKYLAR WREN ❤️
Will Marty ever have a pup shark?
Wonderful! We all signed up on your social media.
Please visit poodlehead.com to find the greatest stuff on earth! This artist is super fantastic and they are a great influence on this book and story! Make sure you visit poodlehead.com for everything you need!!
I go there every day!!❤️❤️❤️
Hi everybody! I love this blog and I love this website!
I have been following you for quite some time now and you are really super super special. I love this story. Thank God for Marty, and thank God for Skylar wren!!!
This is a wonderful blog. Thank you for this inspiring information. I love you Skylar!
Hi, I wanted to say that this is a very interesting blog and I am very interested in following it.
Hi, my name is samantha. I want to thank you, skylar, for inspiring my son to follow through on his dreams.
Will you please come to Russia and write stories for our school?
Will Marty the Monster create the school?
Donna
Can I ask a quick question❓
How did you come up with such an amazingly wonderful story! Thank you thank you so much for this wonderful wonderful book! Not only do my children love it but my husband loves it as well! We can’t wait for the movie! Thank you Skylar!!
RoBiarm