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Fish in a Tree

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Fish in a Tree

By: Lynda Hunt
Narrated by: Kathleen McInerney
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About this listen

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) Difficult Situations Fiction Growing Up Literature & Fiction Neurodiversity Friendship Special Need Feel-Good Dyslexia

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)
All stars
Most relevant  
As an eleven year old Dyslexic girl, this book has help me feel more confident to try new ways of learning and to believe in myself more. I am going to set the world on fire too.

Great story for everyone with Dyslexia and those that want to understand.

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Great eye opener to how we are all different learners, yet we still judge. children all learn differently and at a different pace, yet we still expect them to be at the same level at the same time. Ally Nikerson will stay with me forever.

Think outside the box

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I’ve been meaning to read it for a while and it’s been sitting in my bedside table for about 6 months.

I enjoyed it. Not only would it be a good read for students but Mr. Daniels (the teacher in the book) is a pretty good role model for educators.

Pretty great read

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The start till about chapter 15 was pretty boring but now from like chapter 20 and on is real good.

Fish in a Tree Rev

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An easy to listen to audio book which perfectly captures the very essence of neurodiversity across the spectrum, but particularly for Dyslexics.
A must for every parent and for teacher’s - who can make or break the spirit of kids. I wish there were more Mr Daniel’s in the world.
I laughed, cried, cheered and cringed while listening to this.
A few ‘cheesy’ parts to the narrative (hence the 4/5 star review) but it was overall a great book.

Cleverly Written, well narratives and a worthy read especially for Dyslexics

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This book was a great insight to how a student with learning differences (dyslexia) is feeling and how they can work with others to overcome challenges and help others.
Just because you can’t read as well as everyone else, it didn’t mean you are not smart.

All teachers and parents need to read this!

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Lynda once again has written an amazing piece that was very enjoyable to listen to. Great range of characters, experiences all tied together through important messages and themes. Highly recommend!

A Valuable Read

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5 starsssssss s s s s s s I’m just getting minimum words s s s s s s s s

5 stars

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