Leo Lionni (1910-1999), born in Amsterdam, studied economics in Zurich and Genoa while also working as a graphic artist and painter. In 1939, he emigrated to the USA, where he worked as a graphic designer for companies such as Olivetti and magazines like "Time" and "Life." In 1962, he settled in Italy as a freelance artist. The father of the globally beloved and successful picture book character Frederick published around 30 picture books, many of which are award-winning and have delighted several generations of readers.

When the little fish learns from his friend, the frog, about all the wonders of the land—colorful birds, cows with pink bags full of milk, people, colors, and lights—he wants to see it for himself and jumps onto the shore.