This is an engaging novel that wonderfully depicts the struggles of a dyslexic teen, Ally. The challenges posed by Ally helps the readers to empathize with her character and to learn about a world where the simplest task for some people can become a nightmare for others. The various attempts made by her 'to fit in' are highlighted quite interestingly. The teacher plays an inspirational role as he takes on the task of supporting her in the learning journey with her different abilities. This book helps the readers to connect to the life of children in schools and their inner thoughts and fears. The extra mile walked by the teacher is commendable and reinforces the power entailed by the noble profession. Ultimately, this is a great book meant for students in 5th grade or above that accurately depicts a story of a dyslexic teen.

An amazing book! I think it is about courage, knowing that there are people around you that can help and just being yourself! At least that's the impression that I got from it. Would definitely recommend this to anyone who manages to find this comment!

An excellent and inspiring story for 5th/6th graders about a girl with dyslexia and her journey to overcome its challenges and accept its benefits. Very accessible language with easily digestible themes. Relatable to kids who have struggled with schoolwork. Would be great for a class read-aloud or an assigned book.

The poignant tale of a middle school girl named Ally who can’t read well due to her dyslexia yet has a knack for creative and musical pursuits. Her struggles also stem from her moving around so much(as her dad is in the military), her mother’s busy schedule, and her older brother’s learning difficulties. Her confidence slowly seems to grow due to a loving man named Mr. Daniels who becomes Ally’s teacher. He constantly sees through her distractions and believes in her capabilities. Through coping with her own struggles, she gains 2 friends named Keisha and Albert and realizes that anything is possible and that it’s never too late to improve upon something. I really liked that this book put a lot of importance on dyslexia and how a kid feels when his or her peers constantly make fun of them due to their disability. The book makes it clear that everybody with a disability still is capable of achieving a lot. However, I think that the book should’ve given a little bit more background about Ally’s family. Nevertheless, this is a wonderful book that shines a light on disabilities in children!

It was a great read! I really enjoyed this book and I would recommend it definitely to the people who loved Wonder by RJ Palacio... You should read this!

Ally is a sixth grader who has trouble fitting in. She has been to several different schools throughout her elementary years due to her father being in the military and is constantly finding ways to go unnoticed. She can draw beautifully and creates movies in her mind to help escape difficult situations with academics and classmates. When her current teacher goes on maternity leave, she finally has a teacher, Mr. Daniels, who notices her true struggles with reading. Ally is diagnosed with dyslexia, and Mr. Daniels offers to help her overcome her reading challenges. This is a wonderful book about triumphing over difficult situations that get in a person’s way and realizing that anything is possible.

Reviewed by Miss Julie

Coen Level M

What everybody else said, but it has come to my attention that some characters from marginalized populations have been portrayed stereotypically. I have to admit that I did not notice that when I read it, but it's important to at least consider that when reading the book.

'Fish in a Tree' is simultaneously both heartbreaking and joyous.

Middle grades are hard enough, as kids are trying to find their place, their voice and beginning to discover their values. It's doubly hard when they are different or simple perceived as different.

All of us are here because we are avid readers. 'Fish in a Tree' forces us to discover what it's like to struggle or not to be able to do what we take for granted. Sure, we know the traits, but 'Fish in a Tree' helps us, makes us understand the emotions, the frustrations, the pain of feeling as 'less than'. It focuses on learning disabilities, but touches on race and bullying.

It celebrates spirit set free.

5 stars

I loved this book! It was really good.