When he meets a new school that fears leaving their safe rock and being attacked by a predator, Swimmy saves the day by being the leader they need.

He sees many beautiful and strange creatures on his journey until he finally discovers another school of little red fish, just like his own family used to be.

In Leo Lionni's obituary, New York Times writer, Steven Heller, states, "When Swimmy says, 'I will be the eye,' it is clear that this is also a portrait of the artist as seer."

Frances Foster, Lionni's long-time editor also said, "I think that's certainly the way Leo saw his role as an artist, seeing for people.

"[2] Lionni told teacher and author, Vivian Paley, that of all the creations in his writings, Swimmy was the character most like himself.