Not Norman: A Goldfish Story

A boy receives a goldfish named Norman as a pet but feels disappointed, having hoped for a different animal companion. He plans to trade Norman at the pet store for what he considers a more exciting pet. Through time spent observing Norman, the boy begins to notice things about his goldfish's personality and behaviors. His initial resistance to keeping Norman as a pet faces a challenge as he learns more about his new companion. The story explores themes of acceptance, looking past first impressions, and finding friendship in unexpected places. It demonstrates how perceptions can change when people take time to know and understand others.

Readers appreciate this picture book for teaching children about pet responsibility and challenging assumptions. Parents report their kids connect with the main character's journey from disappointment to acceptance. Readers highlight: - Promotes empathy and giving things a chance - Colorful, expressive illustrations - Works well for classroom read-alouds - Realistic portrayal of a child's thought process Common criticisms: - Some find the story predictable - A few note it's shorter than expected Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (1,400+ ratings) Amazon: 4.8/5 (240+ ratings) Barnes & Noble: 4.8/5 (25+ ratings) "Perfect for teaching kids about keeping an open mind," writes one teacher reviewer. Multiple parents mention the book helped their children appreciate their own pet fish more. Several librarians note it pairs well with units on pets or friendship.

Memoirs of a Goldfish by Devin Scillian A day-by-day account chronicles a goldfish's observations as his bowl fills with more tankmates and decorations.

I'm a Fish by David Prosser The tale follows a pet store fish who experiences life through different tanks until finding his home.

The Pout-Pout Fish by Deborah Diesen A fish transforms his perspective about being gloomy after encountering other sea creatures.

Fish Is Fish by Leo Lionni A minnow learns to appreciate his own identity when his frog friend describes life beyond the pond.

A Fish Out of Water by Helen Palmer A young boy learns responsibility when his pet fish grows to enormous proportions after receiving too much food.

🐠 Author Kelly Bennett wrote this book based on her own childhood experience of wanting a different pet but getting stuck with a goldfish instead 🐠 Despite their reputation as simple pets, goldfish can actually recognize faces, remember things for months, and even be trained to perform tricks 🐠 The book's illustrator, Noah Z. Jones, has also created artwork for popular children's TV shows, including "Fish Hooks" and "Almost Naked Animals" 🐠 While the book's Norman is orange, goldfish naturally come in many colors including black, white, red, yellow, and calico combinations 🐠 The story has won multiple awards, including being named to the Texas 2x2 Reading List and receiving the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Award