Lunch Wore a Speedo, 19: The Nineteenth Sherman’s Lagoon Collection

A satirical, sea-floor look at popular culture, as showcased through the lives of a lovable shark and his oceanic cronies. Sherman’s Lagoon is a fantasy place situated somewhere in the tropics. It’s inhabited by a motley crew of sea creatures, whose marine lives suspiciously mirror our own. Through his comic strip, cartoonist Jim Toomey explores many of the issues that we face daily in our world on dry land. His characters attempt new business ventures, go on disastrous dates, try fad diets, and read the latest best-selling books. But, they also have problems that are unique to fish. Should you bring shrimp to the holiday party? Will shrimp be there?

Sherman’s Lagoon appeals to adults and children alike. Children, pre-teen, and teens enjoy its underwater theme and the sometimes rough-and-tumble world of life in the ocean. Adults enjoy the social commentary that is a common thread in the strip.

There is also an educational aspect to the strip that gives it a unique place in the comics. Toomey explores environmental themes in a light, apolitical way. And, he takes his characters on road trips, where they explore different parts of the ocean and meet native animals along the way.