A New York Times Bestseller • 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. "Fans of R.J. Palacio’s Wonder will appreciate this feel-good story of friendship and unconventional smarts.” —Kirkus Reviews “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. Schneider Family Book Award • ALA Notable • Global Read-Aloud Selection • Crystal Kite Nerdy Book Award
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About the author
Lynda Mullaly Hunt
Author
American writer
Fish in a Tree
by Lynda Mullaly Hunt
Books Like Fish in a Tree
If you're looking for books similar to Fish in a Tree, here are some recommendations based on themes, tone, and narrative style.
Out of My Mind
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A powerful story about Melody, a brilliant girl with cerebral palsy who cannot speak. Similar to Ally, Melody struggles against assumptions about her intelligence. The book challenges perceptions of disability and highlights the importance of seeing beyond surface limitations. It celebrates inner strength and the power of communication.
Wonder
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A heartwarming story about Auggie Pullman, a boy with a facial difference who enters mainstream school for the first time. Like Ally, Auggie faces challenges with acceptance and self-confidence. The book explores themes of kindness, empathy, and understanding individual differences. It shows how compassionate teachers and supportive friends can help children overcome personal struggles.
The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl
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A story about Lucy, a math prodigy with OCD who must learn to connect with peers. Similar to Ally, Lucy struggles with feeling different and must overcome social challenges. The book explores neurodiversity, self-acceptance, and finding one's place in the world. It celebrates individual strengths and the importance of understanding oneself.
Freak the Mighty
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A novel about two boys with different challenges who form an unlikely friendship. Like Ally, the characters learn to see beyond their perceived limitations. The book explores themes of friendship, acceptance, and personal growth. It shows how understanding and supporting each other can help overcome individual struggles.
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A novel about Willow Chance, a gifted and unique child who struggles to fit in after a tragic loss. Similar to Ally, Willow discovers her own strengths and learns to navigate social challenges. The book celebrates neurodiversity and the importance of finding one's place in the world. It emphasizes how unconventional intelligence and creativity can be powerful assets.
Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus
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A novel about Aven, a girl born without arms who moves to a new town. Like Ally, Aven faces challenges with self-acceptance and fitting in. The book explores themes of disability, friendship, and overcoming personal obstacles. It shows how individual differences can be sources of strength and unique perspective.
Rules
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A story about Catherine, whose brother has autism, and her journey of understanding and acceptance. Similar to Ally, the book explores themes of neurodiversity and individual differences. It shows how compassion and understanding can help people see beyond labels. The novel celebrates unique perspectives and personal growth.
El Deafo
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A graphic memoir about a deaf girl learning to navigate school and social relationships. Like Ally, the protagonist deals with feeling different and learns to embrace her unique qualities. The book explores self-acceptance and overcoming learning challenges with humor and heart. It shows how individual differences can become sources of strength.
The Wild Robot
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A story about Roz, a robot learning to survive and adapt in a wilderness environment. Similar to Ally, Roz must learn to understand her unique capabilities. The book explores themes of learning, adaptation, and finding one's place. It celebrates individual differences and the power of curiosity and resilience.
Restart
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A novel about Chase, who loses his memory and gets a chance to redefine himself. Like Ally, Chase learns about personal growth and challenging preconceived notions. The book explores themes of identity, redemption, and breaking free from past labels. It shows how people can change and discover their true potential.
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