Fish in a Tree

By: Lynda Hunt

Narrated by: Kathleen McInerney

Length: 5 hrs and 44 mins

Publisher's summary

The author of the beloved One for the Murphys gives listeners an emotionally-charged, uplifting novel that will speak to anyone who’s ever thought there was something wrong with them because they didn’t fit in.

"Everybody is smart in different ways. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its life believing it is stupid."

Ally has been smart enough to fool a lot of smart people. Every time she lands in a new school, she is able to hide her inability to read by creating clever yet disruptive distractions. She is afraid to ask for help; after all, how can you cure dumb? However, her newest teacher Mr. Daniels sees the bright, creative kid underneath the trouble maker. With his help, Ally learns not to be so hard on herself and that dyslexia is nothing to be ashamed of. As her confidence grows, Ally feels free to be herself and the world starts opening up with possibilities. She discovers that there’s a lot more to her - and to everyone - than a label, and that great minds don’t always think alike.

©2015 Lynda Mullaly Hunt (P)2015 Listening Library (Audio)

Critic reviews

“Unforgettable and uplifting.... Deals with the hardships of middle school in a funny, yet realistic and thoughtful manner. Ally has a great voice, she is an unforgettable, plucky protagonist that the reader roots for from page one. This novel is a must-have.” (School Library Connection, starred review)

“Filled with a delightful range of quirky characters and told with heart, the story also explores themes of family, friendship, and courage in its many forms.... It has something to offer for a wide-ranging audience.... Offering hope to those who struggle academically and demonstrating that a disability does not equal stupidity, this is as unique as its heroine.” (Booklist, starred review)

“Mullaly Hunt again paints a nuanced portrayal of a sensitive, smart girl struggling with circumstances beyond her control.... Ally’s raw pain and depression are vividly rendered, while the diverse supporting cast feels fully developed.... Mr. Daniels is an inspirational educator whose warmth radiates off the page. Best of all, Mullaly Hunt eschews the unrealistic feel-good ending for one with hard work and small changes. Ally’s journey is heartwarming but refreshingly devoid of schmaltz.” (School Library Journal, starred review)

it's a MUST READ for kids and adults alike.

Finally a book that shows the true diversity and complexity of students and teachers alike. The message is heartwarming and true today.

Shark on a Mountain

I think it is a great book for everyone because we have all experienced what it is like to be a middle school student. The story is witty, smart and will have you in tears at some points. In a world where bullying continues to grow, it is refreshing to hear how one teacher can not only change the world for one student but how that change can spider and have a positive impact on the classroom, the school and the community as a whole. I recommend this book for everyone!

Inspirational

Every family who has a child with learning differences should read this book. It would be great if some follow up suggestions on how to help these children were offered. Unfortunately, not everyone gets a Mr. Daniel's for a teacher . thanks for writing this story.

Great reading! Sorry is a little predictable

The narration of this book is really good and she does a great job. The story it self is a little predictable but still draws you in and makes you fall in love with Ally Nickerson.

An awesome book about learning in different ways!!

This was a great story! Knowing that everyone learns in different ways will hopefully help students learn that having learning difficulties does not mean that anyone is dumb, just that they could be the next geniuses of the world.

A powerful read for children and adults alike!

What made the experience of listening to Fish in a Tree the most enjoyable?

I really enjoyed the voice of Kathleen McInerney. This book was recommended to me by a 4th-grade student of mine who was just diagnosed with dyslexia/disgraphia. I am a special education teacher and can't say no when a struggling reader recommends a book to me!

What was one of the most memorable moments of Fish in a Tree?

I most enjoyed listening to the perspective of Allie and the things that she struggled with in school. I liked hearing when and how she would see movies in her head, what instructions/assignments she was most anxious about, and much more.

Which scene was your favorite?

I loved the end of the story. I don't want to spoil it for anyone, but it made me cry and it caught the attention of my student who read the story with his family as well.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Some of the times. At other times, I found myself needing to back up to make sure I was comprehending it all. Mainly that was because I would get lost in my chores I was doing around the house :).

Any additional comments?

Highly recommend this book!

Insightful and heat warming

loved the characters and the story. enjoyed every minute. everyone shoild read it. amazingly real

I

I love the books you published. I love the girl who is dyslexic in it for a fact I am too.

must read for any teacher

this should be a mandatory read for any and all educators before they enter the school. It was an easy read even easier being on audible.

Loved it

I listened to this book with my ten year old daughter and 61 year old mother on a road trip. We loved it: my mom wanted to listen to it in the hotel. Love the story telling voice and the strong fresh characters and the message!!!