Book details
What Do Fish Have to Do With Anything?
Description
In this masterful collection, Newbery Award winner Avi charts the turning points in the lives of seven young protagonists.In the overlapping years when childhood and adolescence blend and shift like waves and sand, nothing is certain and everything is changing. In this extraordinary collection of stories, Avi, one of the most innovative authors writing for young people today, charts the turning points in the lives of seven protagonists in their restless middle years. Here you will meet, among others, the subject of the title story, who wonders why he shouldn't ask questions that have no answers - is it because he might discover the truth? You'll also encounter a "bad" minister's son who is dared to be good, and a chilling tale of a girl who is haunted by the ghosts of her cats. Always with a surprise built in, an angle unseen, these are stories that step just beyond the edge of the everyday.
Age
10-14
Text complexity
developing
Length
208 pages
Why to read
- Exploration of Complex Themes: Avi's 'What Do Fish Have to Do With Anything?' delves into profound themes such as happiness, mental health, and the human condition through a collection of engaging short stories, making it a thought-provoking read for both young readers and adults.
- Character Development: The book offers richly drawn characters who face various challenges and moral dilemmas, providing readers with the opportunity to explore different perspectives and growth, which can be both educational and emotionally resonant.
- Literary Excellence: Avi is a Newbery Medal-winning author known for his skillful storytelling and well-crafted prose. Reading this book allows one to appreciate the art of short story writing and the nuances that make Avi's work stand out in children's literature.
- Engagement and Discussion: The stories in 'What Do Fish Have to Do With Anything?' are designed to spark conversation and critical thinking. They are ideal for classroom discussions, book clubs, or family reading time, as they encourage readers to question and reflect on the world around them.