Book Review: Fish in a Tree
A Heartfelt Journey of Resilience: A Comprehensive Review of Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt
Introduction: A Story That Resonates Deeply
Have you ever felt like you didn’t quite fit in? Like everyone else had a rulebook you never received? Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt is a middle-grade novel that tackles this universal feeling with grace, humor, and profound empathy. At its core, this book is about Ally Nickerson, a bright but misunderstood girl who struggles with dyslexia—though she doesn’t even know it yet.
Hunt’s novel isn’t just a story about learning differences; it’s a celebration of resilience, the power of a great teacher, and the importance of finding your voice. Whether you’re a young reader, an educator, or an adult who remembers feeling lost in school, Fish in a Tree will leave an indelible mark on your heart.
🔗 Get the Book: Amazon
Plot Summary: A Girl Who Just Needs the Right Key
Ally Nickerson is a sixth-grader who has mastered the art of hiding her struggles. She acts out, distracts classmates, and avoids reading aloud—anything to keep her secret safe: she can’t read well. Letters dance on the page, and no matter how hard she tries, she can’t make sense of them.
After years of being labeled “slow” or “difficult,” Ally meets Mr. Daniels, a substitute teacher who sees her potential. Unlike previous educators, he doesn’t punish her for her struggles. Instead, he recognizes the signs of dyslexia and helps her unlock her true abilities. Along the way, Ally forms unexpected friendships with quirky, loyal classmates like Keisha and Albert, who teach her that being different isn’t a weakness—it’s a strength.
Without giving away major spoilers, the story follows Ally’s journey from self-doubt to self-acceptance, showing how a little understanding can change everything.
Character Analysis: Real, Relatable, and Remarkable
Ally Nickerson: The Heart of the Story
Ally is a protagonist who leaps off the page. Her internal monologue is raw and authentic—filled with frustration, humor, and moments of quiet brilliance. What makes her so compelling is her resilience. She’s not a victim; she’s a fighter who just needed someone to believe in her.
Mr. Daniels: The Teacher Everyone Deserves
Mr. Daniels is the kind of educator who changes lives. Patient, observant, and kind, he doesn’t just teach Ally to read—he teaches her to believe in herself. His approach is a masterclass in how small acts of understanding can transform a student’s world.
Keisha & Albert: Friends Who Lift Each Other Up
Keisha is bold, confident, and unapologetically herself—a perfect foil to Ally’s self-doubt. Albert, with his love of science and quiet wisdom, adds depth to their trio. Their friendship feels real, with all the ups and downs of middle school dynamics.
Writing Style & Narrative Technique: Simple Yet Profound
Hunt’s prose is accessible but never simplistic. She writes with a clarity that makes the story engaging for young readers while packing emotional depth that resonates with adults. The first-person perspective immerses us in Ally’s world, making her struggles and triumphs feel intensely personal.
One standout technique is Hunt’s use of metaphors—like the title itself, Fish in a Tree, which comes from a saying Ally’s grandfather shared: “Everyone is smart in different ways. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing it is stupid.” This metaphor perfectly encapsulates the book’s message.
Themes & Deeper Meanings: More Than Just a Dyslexia Story
While dyslexia is central to the plot, Fish in a Tree explores broader themes:
- The Power of Empathy: Mr. Daniels doesn’t just teach Ally—he listens. His empathy contrasts sharply with previous teachers who dismissed her.
- Friendship & Belonging: Ally’s journey shows how true friends accept you as you are.
- Self-Worth & Potential: The book challenges the idea that intelligence is one-size-fits-all.
Personal Reading Experience: Why This Book Stays With You
As someone who struggled with feeling “different” in school, this book hit me hard. Ally’s frustration, her moments of hope, and her eventual breakthrough felt deeply personal. Hunt doesn’t sugarcoat the pain of being misunderstood, but she also shows how powerful it is when someone finally sees you.
I cried, I laughed, and I finished the book with a renewed appreciation for the teachers who change lives.
Comparisons to Other Works
Fans of Wonder by R.J. Palacio or Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper will love Fish in a Tree. Like those books, it tackles differences with warmth and authenticity. However, Hunt’s focus on dyslexia offers a fresh perspective within the genre.
Strengths & Minor Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Authentic voice: Ally feels like a real kid.
- Emotional depth: The story balances heartbreak and hope beautifully.
- Important message: A must-read for educators and parents.
Minor Weaknesses:
- Some secondary characters could be more developed.
- The pacing is steady but may feel slow to readers who prefer high-action plots.
Who Should Read This Book?
- Middle-grade readers (ages 9-12) navigating school challenges.
- Teachers & parents looking for empathy-driven stories.
- Anyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t fit in.
Memorable Quotes
“Everybody is smart in different ways. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing it is stupid.”
“I guess maybe ‘I’m sorry’ is the wrong thing to say. Maybe ‘I get it’ is better.”
Final Thoughts: A Book That Changes Perspectives
Fish in a Tree isn’t just a book—it’s a lifeline for kids who feel unseen and a reminder for adults of the power of kindness. Lynda Mullaly Hunt has crafted a story that’s as entertaining as it is important.
If you’re looking for a book that will make you laugh, cry, and believe in the goodness of people, this is it.
🔗 Get the Book: Amazon
Discussion Questions for Readers:
- Have you ever felt like Ally—misunderstood or judged for something beyond your control?
- Who was your “Mr. Daniels”—a teacher or mentor who changed your life?
- How does the book challenge traditional ideas of intelligence?
Let me know your thoughts in the comments! 📚💬
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