Review- Fish in a Tree

Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt is a story about Ally, who is very bright but has trouble reading. Ally loves math and she thinks in pictures but when she has to read or write the letters dance on the page. She makes excuses and causes trouble rather than asking for help. That is, until Mr. Daniels becomes her teacher. He takes great care in helping Ally and showing her that a learning difference doesn't make her dumb, it just means they have to be a little more creative in teaching her to read. 

This is a fabulous story and the audio book is wonderfully done. Ally is relatable and likeable. Mr. Daniels is the teacher you wish you had in 6th grade; he's so understanding, patient and you can tell her really cares about the students. The other kids in the class seem real and are well developed. Ally's friends are great companions and you'll find great joy in their unlikely, yet somehow not surprising, friendship.

Hunt does a wonderful job writing about a character with Dyslexia, but she also handles other topics that every 6th grader deals with: handling bullies, making new friends, feeling alone.  I'll definitely be recommending this book to both kids and parents.