The Short Version
If you loved Fish in a Tree, you probably want more stories about kids who don’t fit in, great teachers and friends, and finding out you’re smarter than you thought. Here are six books to read next.
Wonder
Number one: Wonder, by R. J. Palacio, from twenty twelve. Auggie Pullman was born with a facial difference and starts school for the first time in fifth grade.
Like Fish in a Tree, it’s about being judged on the outside, and it has a cast of kids who learn to choose kindness. If you only pick one, pick this.
Out Of My Mind
Number two: Out of My Mind, by Sharon Draper, from twenty ten. Melody has cerebral palsy and can’t speak or write, but she has a brilliant mind, and nobody knows it.
It’s the closest match in feeling: a smart girl trapped by how the world sees her. Fair warning, it’s more heartbreaking.
Hank Zipzer
Number three: Niagara Falls, Or Does It?, the first Hank Zipzer book, by Henry Winkler and Lin Oliver, from two thousand three. Hank is a funny kid with learning differences.
Fun connection: Henry Winkler is one of the famous people on Mr. Daniels’s list, and he has spoken publicly about his own dyslexia. The series is light and silly, great for reluctant readers.
The Lightning Thief
Number four: The Lightning Thief, by Rick Riordan, from two thousand five. Percy Jackson has dyslexia and ADHD, and then he finds out he’s a demigod.
In this world, dyslexia is part of what makes him special. It’s an adventure, not a school story, but kids who loved Ally will cheer for Percy.
One For The Murphys
Number five: One for the Murphys, by Lynda Mullaly Hunt, from twenty twelve. It’s the same author’s first novel, about Carley, a girl placed in foster care with a warm family.
If you loved the heart and the voice of Fish in a Tree, this one has the same author’s touch.
Tales Of A Fourth Grade Nothing
Number six: Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing, by Judy Blume, from nineteen seventy two. It’s the book Mr. Daniels hands Ally to read, and she turns it into her proud book report project.
Reading it after Fish in a Tree is a sweet full-circle moment. And it’s genuinely funny.
How To Choose
So, how to choose? Want the biggest heart? Wonder. Want a girl underestimated? Out of My Mind. Want laughs? Hank Zipzer. Want adventure? The Lightning Thief. Want more from the same author? One for the Murphys. And want the book Ally read? Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing.
Your Turn
Tell me in the comments: what book made you feel seen as a kid? My review, ending explained and book club guide are linked below.
