Fish in a Tree

Ally Nickerson, now in the 6th grade, has been labeled as the classroom's “problem child." She has gone through many different teachers and schools, but nothing about her seems to change. When teachers ask her questions, she refuses to answer. When she doesn't turn in assignments, her teachers scold her. Same old routine for the last six years, though she really doesn't want to cause trouble. She is a very smart and creative young girl; but when she tries to read, the words may as well be rippling hieroglyphics. For fear of being even more of an outcast, she hides the fact of her limitations. Because she struggles with reading and writing, she feels as though she is just a dumb, lost-cause of a student. When a new teacher by the name of Mr. Daniels transfers to her classroom, he starts using a teaching style that she has never had an opportunity to experience before. Rather than scolding Ally for her interesting takes on assignments, he tries to dig deeper into the cause. He praises her ability to “think outside the box." He believes in her, which makes a huge difference on her ability to learn. After he discovers she is really struggling with severe dyslexia, he is able to help her learn in creative ways that she understands. She begins growing a confidence and community, both of which she has longed for but thought impossible. This inspiring story is an eye opener to a reality that many people face simply because they learn differently. The back of the book includes discussion question pages and some of the “impossible drawings" mentioned throughout the story. 277 pgs, pb.