Title: Fish in a Tree
Author: Lynda Mullaly Hunt
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Themes: Back to School, Self Awareness, Self Management
ISBN: 9780142426425
Publisher's Summary:
Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt is a heartwarming novel that invites readers into the world of Ally Nickerson, a bright and creative sixth-grader who has always struggled with reading because of her undiagnosed dyslexia. For years, Ally has hidden her difficulties by acting out and creating clever distractions, afraid that asking for help would expose her as "dumb." The story takes place primarily in Ally's classroom, where her challenges are compounded by frequent moves due to her father's military service and the recent loss of her grandfather. Her mother works long hours, and Ally often feels isolated, misunderstood, and out of place.
Everything begins to change with the arrival of Mr. Daniels, a new teacher who recognizes Ally's intelligence and unique perspective. With his support, Ally starts to understand her own strengths and learns strategies to cope with her learning differences. The book thoughtfully explores themes of friendship, perseverance, identity, and the power of kindness. Ally forms close bonds with classmates Albert and Keisha, who each face their own challenges, and together they navigate bullying, social pressures, and self-doubt.
Fish in a Tree is an inspiring choice for the classroom, offering rich opportunities to discuss empathy, resilience, and the celebration of individual differences. Students will find Ally's journey relatable and uplifting, while educators will appreciate the authentic portrayal of learning disabilities and the transformative impact of a caring teacher. This novel encourages all readers to embrace their own strengths and to see beyond labels, making it an invaluable resource for fostering acceptance and understanding in the classroom.
