Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt audiobook

Fish in a Tree

By Lynda Mullaly Hunt
Read by Kathleen McInerney

Listening Library
5.75 Hours • Unabridged
Format : Digital Download (In Stock)
  • 1 Format: Digital Download
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    ISBN: 9781101890684

A New York Times Bestseller! The author of the beloved One for the Murphys gives readers 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.

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Summary

Summary

A New York Times Bestseller

Winner of ALA Notable Book

Winner of Schneider Family Book Award, 2016

Winner of Schneider Family Book Award

Winner of ALA Notable Book

Winner of Schneider Family Book Award, 2016

Winner of Schneider Family Book Award

A New York Times Bestseller!

The author of the beloved One for the Murphys gives readers 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.

Editorial Reviews

Editorial Reviews

“Unforgettable and uplifting…Deals with the hardships of middle school in a funny, yet realistic and thoughtful manner…This novel is a must-have.” —School Library Journal (starred review)
“Filled with a delightful range of quirky characters and told with heart…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)
“Ally’s feeling of loneliness and desire to fit in will resonate with young teen readers, as many share those feelings without the difficulty of dyslexia…A tribute to teachers who go the extra mile to reach every student.” —VOYA
“Entertaining dialogue…Ally’s descriptions of her ‘mind movies’ are creative and witty…The treatment of a group of sixth-graders with various quirks who face down their bullies extends the book’s interest beyond the immediate focus on dyslexia.” —Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
“Kathleen McInerney’s energetic narration…balances the heartfelt emotions about struggle and friendship with a distinctive portrayal of every character, adding depth to the story. She voices Ally’s discomfort in a way that seems painful, but she also projects Ally’s strength when she stands up to a teacher who shows prejudice towards her friend Keisha. The other main characters are well defined—Keisha comes through clearly, and the robotic-sounding voice of Albert seems apt for his brilliance. Secondary characters are also clear, especially the kind Mr. Daniels and a menacing bully.” —AudioFile
* “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 
[Hunt’s] depiction of Ally’s learning struggles is relatable, and Ally’s growth and relationships feel organic and real. —Publishers Weekly
Poignant. . . . Emphasis on ‘thinking outside the box’ . . . Ally’s new friendships are satisfying, as are the recognition of her dyslexia and her renewed determination to read. Fans of R.J. Palacio’s Wonder will appreciate this feel-good story of friendship and unconventional smarts. —Kirkus Reviews
Reminiscent of Polacco’s wonderful Thank You, Mr. Falker. . . . Ally’s feeling of loneliness and desire to fit in will resonate with young teen readers, as many share those feelings without the difficulty of dyslexia. . . . A tribute to teachers who go the extra mile to reach every student. . . . A touching story with an important message. —Voice of Youth Advocates
Entertaining dialogue . . . Ally’s descriptions of her ‘mind movies’ are creative and witty. . . . The treatment of a group of sixth-graders with various quirks who face down their bullies extends the book’s interest beyond the immediate focus on dyslexia. —The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
Readers will . . . cheer for this likable girl. —The Horn Book

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Author

Author Bio: Lynda Mullaly Hunt

Author Bio: Lynda Mullaly Hunt

Lynda Mullaly Hunt grew up in Connecticut and received two degrees in education from the University of Connecticut. She left teaching after the birth of her daughter and began writing after her son was born.

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Details

Details

Available Formats : Digital Download
Category: Fiction
Runtime: 5.75
Audience: Children (8–12)
Language: English

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