Fish in a Tree
Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt is an inspiring work of realistic fiction designed for middle-grade readers. The narrative centers on Ally Nickerson, a sixth-grader who skillfully conceals her inability to read due to dyslexia through disruptive classroom behavior and frequent school changes. The core of the story unfolds when a new teacher, Mr. Daniels, recognizes Ally's hidden potential and offers her the support she needs. Alongside her developing friendships with other students who also feel like misfits, Ally begins a transformative journey of self-acceptance and discovery.
Concerns
Violence
MediumThe book contains instances of bullying, including physical altercations, primarily targeting the character Albert. While not graphic, the descriptions involve physical harm and confrontation.
Albert often comes to school with bruises, and on one occasion, a black eye, as a result of bullies attacking him on his way to and from school. In a scene, three boys accost Ally, Keisha, and Albert. Keisha is thrown to the ground, and Albert intervenes by throwing one boy down and hitting another in self-defense, causing the bullies to flee.
Scary & Intense Content
MediumThe book contains emotionally intense situations related to Ally's internal struggles with dyslexia, her fear of being discovered, and the impact of bullying. While not horror, these elements can be distressing for young readers.
Ally experiences significant internal fear and embarrassment over her inability to read, often leading to disruptive behavior and feelings of being 'stupid.' A notable incident involves Ally unknowingly giving her pregnant teacher a sympathy card, causing her deep humiliation and distress when the misunderstanding is revealed to the principal.
Disrespect & Rebellion
MediumThe protagonist, Ally, frequently displays rebellious and disrespectful behavior as a coping mechanism to hide her dyslexia. Bullying by other students is also a prominent theme.
Ally intentionally creates 'clever yet disruptive distractions' in class, often leading to her being sent to the principal's office, as a way to avoid tasks that expose her reading difficulties. The character Shay and her friends consistently tease and make fun of Ally and Albert, exhibiting disrespectful behavior towards their peers.
LGBTQ & Gender Identity
LowComprehensive searches for LGBTQ+ content, characters, or themes within 'Fish in a Tree' yielded no relevant results. The book's focus is on learning differences, bullying, and friendship, with no explicit or implied LGBTQ+ representation.
No instances of LGBTQ+ characters, relationships, or discussions of gender identity were found in the book's plot summaries, character lists, or reviews. Searches for 'Fish in a Tree' combined with terms like lgbtq, gay, lesbian, transgender, queer representation, and LGBTQ characters, as well as author Lynda Mullaly Hunt's statements, returned no pertinent information directly related to the book's content.
Romance and Sexual Content
LowNo discernible romance or sexual content is present in 'Fish in a Tree.' Reviews and content analyses consistently indicate an absence of such themes.
The Plugged In review explicitly states 'Sexual Content: None.' Other detailed reviews and summaries from sources like Goodreads and Fandom wikis make no mention of romantic relationships, crushes, or any form of sexual content among the characters.
Profanity
LowThe use of profanity is minimal and mild, limited to a few religious exclamations.
The review from Plugged In notes that 'God's name is used a few times as an exclamation alone and with my.' Additionally, the euphemism 'heck' is also used. Compass Book Ratings specifically identifies '2 religious exclamations.'
Witchcraft & Occult
LowThere is a single, brief mention of a Native American belief concerning butterflies granting wishes, which is presented as a cultural story rather than active occult practice by the characters.
Albert recounts a story in social studies about Native Americans believing butterflies are 'wish givers,' and that whispering a wish to a caught butterfly before setting it free will carry the wish to spirits who will grant it (page 117). This is an isolated cultural reference and not integral to the plot as witchcraft or occultism.
Substance Use
LowThere is no depiction or mention of substance use, including alcohol, drugs, or smoking, within the book.
The Plugged In review explicitly states 'Substance Use: None.' All other available summaries and content analyses do not include any references to characters engaging in or discussing substance use.
Anti-Christian Themes
LowThe book does not contain any anti-Christian themes. Christian beliefs are mentioned only in brief, neutral contexts.
A classroom activity involves students listing things they are thankful for, prompting Ally to reflect on how many times she has prayed to improve her reading. Another character, Keisha, uses the common expression 'no way on God's green earth' in a casual conversation about Albert's future success.
Other Notes
Target Demographic
Ages 8+ (Grades 3-7). This recommendation is based on the book's themes of navigating learning disabilities, dealing with bullying, and exploring emotional struggles in a school setting, which are suitable and relatable for this age group, as indicated by various educational and parental review sites.
Additional Notes
The book serves as a valuable resource for discussing learning disabilities like dyslexia, empathy, and the importance of supportive relationships. The strong themes of self-acceptance and recognizing individual strengths are positive elements for young readers and parents.
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