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Fish Out of Water
Twelve-year-old Fishel (Fish) Rosner doesn't like regular "boy" things. He hates sports and would prefer to read or do crafts instead of climbing trees or riding dirt bikes with his friends. He also loves to dance. But all his interests are considered "girly." Fish doesn't get why that's a bad thing. He's just interested in different things than other boys. When he asks his Bubby to teach him to knit, she tells him to go play outside. When he begs his mom to take him to Zumba, she enrolls him in water polo instead. Why does everyone else get to decide what Fish should or shouldn't do?
144 pages, Paperback
First published September 22, 2020
3 people are currently reading
195 people want to read
About the author
Joanne Levy
13 books270 followersJoanne Levy’s love of books began at a very early age. Being the youngest and the only female among four children, and the daughter to voracious readers, she was often left to her own devices and could frequently be found sitting in a quiet corner with her nose in a book.
A survivor of the corporate world, Joanne now works from home, supporting other authors and creating the friends she wishes she had when she was a kid.
She lives in Ontario, Canada with her husband, two mischievous cats, a mean African Grey parrot and a sweet but not-so-smart dog. When she’s not busy writing or assisting, she enjoys reading (obviously), needle-felting with wool (Google it), and taking long walks with her faithful writing companion, Labrador Retriever, Zoe.
About my reviews: I'm an author, so I know what it's like to get a non-stellar review of my book. So, with that in mind, I only review books I really like.
A survivor of the corporate world, Joanne now works from home, supporting other authors and creating the friends she wishes she had when she was a kid.
She lives in Ontario, Canada with her husband, two mischievous cats, a mean African Grey parrot and a sweet but not-so-smart dog. When she’s not busy writing or assisting, she enjoys reading (obviously), needle-felting with wool (Google it), and taking long walks with her faithful writing companion, Labrador Retriever, Zoe.
About my reviews: I'm an author, so I know what it's like to get a non-stellar review of my book. So, with that in mind, I only review books I really like.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
September 7, 2020
Fish Out of Water is written with such kindness and compassion - the main character is, as the title suggests, not finding it easy to locate his place in the world. His family expects one thing (you've heard of the man-box? This is the "bar-mitzvah-boy box") but his soul cries out for something else. It's a bumpy ride for him to get there, but with humor and a life-affiming hand, Levy guides Fish to the fish-er...finish line. I loved it and would recommend for 5th-7th graders, esp reluctant readers!
July 31, 2020
A quick, age-appropriate book that covers an issue I don't often see in children's books: gender conformity and stereotyping. The protagonist, Fishel ("Fish") is surrounded by people who try to push him into sports and discourage his interest in activities that are considered "feminine"--knitting and dance.
I appreciated the range of responses to Fish's interests: some simply assumed that he would like sports and needed to be told otherwise, while others actually got angry and seemed to take it personally. However, Fish also encountered people who encouraged his hobbies, and pointed out that activities weren't just "for girls" or "for boys", but for anyone who was interested. I thought this was a very realistic depiction of society and the responses friends, family, and even strangers have to kids that don't fit the norm.
The writing itself didn't stand out to me and I enjoyed this book more for its message. However, I'm aware I'm not the intended audience and this book is for younger readers.
I think this would be a great book for kids around Fish's age or a few years younger to read. It talks about the importance of standing up for yourself (even to adults!), not viewing girls as less than boys, and embracing what you like, even if you're made fun of for it. I also really enjoyed that the plot centered around Fish's mitzvah--a good deeds project. Not only did I appreciate a book with a Jewish protagonist where his religion and culture was highlighted, but it sends a good message about ways kids can give back to the community and care about others.
I appreciated the range of responses to Fish's interests: some simply assumed that he would like sports and needed to be told otherwise, while others actually got angry and seemed to take it personally. However, Fish also encountered people who encouraged his hobbies, and pointed out that activities weren't just "for girls" or "for boys", but for anyone who was interested. I thought this was a very realistic depiction of society and the responses friends, family, and even strangers have to kids that don't fit the norm.
The writing itself didn't stand out to me and I enjoyed this book more for its message. However, I'm aware I'm not the intended audience and this book is for younger readers.
I think this would be a great book for kids around Fish's age or a few years younger to read. It talks about the importance of standing up for yourself (even to adults!), not viewing girls as less than boys, and embracing what you like, even if you're made fun of for it. I also really enjoyed that the plot centered around Fish's mitzvah--a good deeds project. Not only did I appreciate a book with a Jewish protagonist where his religion and culture was highlighted, but it sends a good message about ways kids can give back to the community and care about others.
June 9, 2022
I enjoyed this story so much more than I expected to! I really liked that it had nothing to do with being gay, it was Fishel being himself, he may have been gay but it was never mentioned. I am fine either way if the character was gay, bisexual, trans, etc. My point is that it was about stereotypical gender roles that so many people are still on that only "girls" or only "boys" can do certain things such as knitting. I think the author did a nice job expressing how that is actually insulting the "girls" or "boys". I also cried much harder at the end than I ever expected too. I did not see that coming and it really touched my heart. It was a really great story and educational about gender roles. A must-have for all libraries!!!
February 4, 2021
Fish is working on his bar mitzvah project. His friends are collecting hockey equipment, but he doesn't like sports and doesn't want to do that. He likes to dance and would like to learn to knit like his Bubby. His family doesn't want him to dance or knit because he is a boy and the say that boys don't knit or dance.
I liked Fish Out of Water because I have quite a few boys in my library who check out knitting or crocheting kits when other boys aren't around. It is important to understand that crafting isn't just for girls and even kids can make a difference in the world.
In our library F LEVY.
I liked Fish Out of Water because I have quite a few boys in my library who check out knitting or crocheting kits when other boys aren't around. It is important to understand that crafting isn't just for girls and even kids can make a difference in the world.
In our library F LEVY.
August 10, 2020
Aw this book was so cute.
I love the cover alot
I love that this book touched down on alot on gender norms and breaking the stereotype it was a really good middle grade/YA book that should be in alot of classrooms.
The ending was so cute and it made me really happy it was a short read i finished it really fast!
Thank you netgalley for this ARC! ❤️
I love the cover alot
I love that this book touched down on alot on gender norms and breaking the stereotype it was a really good middle grade/YA book that should be in alot of classrooms.
The ending was so cute and it made me really happy it was a short read i finished it really fast!
Thank you netgalley for this ARC! ❤️
September 27, 2020
I choked up several times reading this beautiful middle grade book. Perfect for reluctant readers, this novel conveys a very important message on gender bias, taking on social norms for activities that are deemed for girls and for boys. I'd love to see this shared in classrooms, read to students out loud.
FRTC, but definitely put this on your MUST READ list!
FRTC, but definitely put this on your MUST READ list!
March 26, 2021
This is an ideal length for read-aloud, and ideal in content, too. Fish is an enmnoyable character who is approaching Bar Mitzvah at exactly the point in life in which his sense of self, of agency, of what really matters to him all come together amid a set of family and friends that are realistic, frustrating, challenging, and ultimately a community.
This will generate interest, conversation, connection, and curiosity/learning about ways to understand self and others.
This will generate interest, conversation, connection, and curiosity/learning about ways to understand self and others.
June 30, 2024
Light hearted middle grade story about a kid named Fish, who has to do a Mitzvah project and learns a few things about himself (and his friends and family) in the process.
Read
May 22, 2021Beautifully written and poignant, this tackles an important topic (gender conformity) without ever touching on gender identity or sexual preference. Fish’s voice and the dialogue are great, perfectly authentic for the age group (preteens).
“Excited for your first water-polo lesson?” Mom asked…
“Sure,” I said. Which was code for “not even a little.” Not that she understood code. Obviously.
Fish’s growing assertiveness, his courage to face up to friends and family who are un-accepting of his nontraditional choices, is well expressed.
It felt good. They weren’t making fun of me for wanting to knit. I was being myself. And they liked me anyway. Or maybe they liked me because I was myself.
Too bad my old friends couldn’t. But that was their loss.
Only trouble is, his coming around to standing up for himself, and the other characters’ willingness to back off their initial opposition, comes rather speedily and easily. Unrealistically so, even for a middle-grade book.
With one short speech from Fish, his grandfather suddenly stops watching TV sports, takes up knitting alongside him to support him, and sticks up for him to others. Seriously?
His mother, after one Fish meltdown, totally comes around and gives her partner a talking-to that converts him (again, instantly) to being supportive too. Ditto with grandma and eventually, his school friends.
The rabbi instantly “gets” Fish’s pain and offers a rousing speech about how kids who call him “girly” are insulting female-kind. Not to mention the female friend who, inspired by one courageous incident of Fish standing up for himself, gives a sizzling speech to his bullying guy ex-friends, prompting them to see the light and toe the line.
Yeah, and then there’s the real world.
But it’s a well written story with potential to make would-be bullies think twice, fish-out-of-water kids feel supported and braver, and those in between pause for thought. An important topic well illuminated. And a great cover.
“Excited for your first water-polo lesson?” Mom asked…
“Sure,” I said. Which was code for “not even a little.” Not that she understood code. Obviously.
Fish’s growing assertiveness, his courage to face up to friends and family who are un-accepting of his nontraditional choices, is well expressed.
It felt good. They weren’t making fun of me for wanting to knit. I was being myself. And they liked me anyway. Or maybe they liked me because I was myself.
Too bad my old friends couldn’t. But that was their loss.
Only trouble is, his coming around to standing up for himself, and the other characters’ willingness to back off their initial opposition, comes rather speedily and easily. Unrealistically so, even for a middle-grade book.
With one short speech from Fish, his grandfather suddenly stops watching TV sports, takes up knitting alongside him to support him, and sticks up for him to others. Seriously?
His mother, after one Fish meltdown, totally comes around and gives her partner a talking-to that converts him (again, instantly) to being supportive too. Ditto with grandma and eventually, his school friends.
The rabbi instantly “gets” Fish’s pain and offers a rousing speech about how kids who call him “girly” are insulting female-kind. Not to mention the female friend who, inspired by one courageous incident of Fish standing up for himself, gives a sizzling speech to his bullying guy ex-friends, prompting them to see the light and toe the line.
Yeah, and then there’s the real world.
But it’s a well written story with potential to make would-be bullies think twice, fish-out-of-water kids feel supported and braver, and those in between pause for thought. An important topic well illuminated. And a great cover.
August 26, 2020
I just finished reading this amazing book! I felt so bad for Fishel when he was told by others that he should be looking at doing other things that were not girly. I love how he questioned that with...."what, I'm not allowed to knit because I'm a boy?" I love how you did not make this about a young gay person or a LGBTQ situation. That it was simply about being pushed into stereotypical activities and how unproductive or harmful that can be. How the statements often used in our society can be insulting to all of the girls and women in the community. I loved how Fishel wanted his project to help out others in a warm and caring manner. I really, really loved how the community (seniors and otherwise) all responded and proudly knitted socks for the project. Knitting can be surprising. It does bring people together (male and female, young and old) and provide an avenue of commonality. I had tears of emotional joy at the end. I felt like Bubby being very proud of my grandson. Highly recommend this book for a classroom read aloud grades 5 to 8. Joanne's website also provides a knitting project.
February 26, 2021
The title, Fish out of water, is a brilliant play on words that reflects the central theme of this story by Joanne Levy. Twelve year old protagonist Fisher Rosner, who along with his best friend Seth, contemplate the time honoured tradition of “bar mitzvah”. Fishel, aka “Fish” ponders what he should do, as a bar mitzvah is defined as doing a good deed project giving something meaningful to your community by giving of yourself.
Following a chance conversation, Fish gains the self confidence and courage to pursue what is in his heart, his passion.
As his personal convictions strengthen, this allows him to develop his idea on a scale he never imagines. All the while these actions help him overcome the preconceived societal ideas often unspoken ... gender roles.
I loved how the author explains the meaning behind this ancient tradition by wrapping and developing the entire story around a project where Fishel Rosner not only embodies the true meaning of bar mitzvah, he also discovers something wonderful about himself and his community!
Highly recommended for readers of any age!
Five Stars ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Published by Orca Book Publishers
Series: Orca Currents: 123p (
Following a chance conversation, Fish gains the self confidence and courage to pursue what is in his heart, his passion.
As his personal convictions strengthen, this allows him to develop his idea on a scale he never imagines. All the while these actions help him overcome the preconceived societal ideas often unspoken ... gender roles.
I loved how the author explains the meaning behind this ancient tradition by wrapping and developing the entire story around a project where Fishel Rosner not only embodies the true meaning of bar mitzvah, he also discovers something wonderful about himself and his community!
Highly recommended for readers of any age!
Five Stars ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Published by Orca Book Publishers
Series: Orca Currents: 123p (
January 31, 2021
A lovely book that takes on the theme of gender non-conformity, a topic I hope middle school books will take on more often. Fishel – or Fish - isn’t your stereotypical boy. He’d rather knit and dance and is constantly being told that he shouldn’t like these things. He’s told he should play sports and do things more in line with his gender. Some of the people in his life are simply invasive while others are outright hostile to him. However, Fish has the good fortune of finding people who encourage him in his interests, reminding him and the reader that there is no such thing as activities just for boys or girls, but activities that anyone can enjoy
This is such a valuable book, if nothing else, than to break through the toxic masculinity that deems “feminine activities” as inferior to boy-centric activities. It also emphasizes the importance of empathy towards other and engaging in activities that benefit the community activities. Bonus points for the positive representation of Jewish culture and religion. Short and easy to read, it nonetheless does a lot of good work. I was happy to pass this on to my middle-schooler.
This is such a valuable book, if nothing else, than to break through the toxic masculinity that deems “feminine activities” as inferior to boy-centric activities. It also emphasizes the importance of empathy towards other and engaging in activities that benefit the community activities. Bonus points for the positive representation of Jewish culture and religion. Short and easy to read, it nonetheless does a lot of good work. I was happy to pass this on to my middle-schooler.
July 31, 2020
Fish Out of Water by Joanne Levy is part of the Orca Currents series for middle-school students, and it is the first I've had the pleasure to read.
Twelve year old Fish Rosner is not content to have his interests defined by his gender. When his grandmother refuses to teach him how to knit, something he feels very passionate about, he is confused when she instead suggests that he watch sports with his grandfather. When Fish later joins the knitting club at school, it might just cost him the friendship of his bestie, Seth, but Fish soon realizes that pursuing your passion is sometimes the only way to be true to yourself, whatever the cost.
This is an engaging and affecting story that, although brief, speaks volumes about age appropriate issues and concerns, and it will certainly strike a chord with many readers, particularly within the middle-school demographic. I would be very interested in exploring more of this series in the future.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Orca Book Publishers for this ARC.
Twelve year old Fish Rosner is not content to have his interests defined by his gender. When his grandmother refuses to teach him how to knit, something he feels very passionate about, he is confused when she instead suggests that he watch sports with his grandfather. When Fish later joins the knitting club at school, it might just cost him the friendship of his bestie, Seth, but Fish soon realizes that pursuing your passion is sometimes the only way to be true to yourself, whatever the cost.
This is an engaging and affecting story that, although brief, speaks volumes about age appropriate issues and concerns, and it will certainly strike a chord with many readers, particularly within the middle-school demographic. I would be very interested in exploring more of this series in the future.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Orca Book Publishers for this ARC.
December 4, 2020
This is a witty and warm book about a 12-year-old boy confronting gender stereotypes. In having interests that go against the typical gender norms, he encounters backlash from family and friends alike. I wish this book had been there when my children were growing up. While the story is gentle and funny and a joyous read, the protagonist has to difficult decisions and learn to become comfortable with himself. I loved every piece of it.
July 30, 2021
Fish needs a project for his Bar Mitzvah but is undecided. When he gets a great idea, knitting socks, from his grandmother, he is told it is a "girl" thing. Then his best friend makes fun of him for joining the knitting club. Finally he learns to stick up for himself and gets the project done.
Fast paced, short book, good for discussion about gender activities, labeling, doing whatever interests you
Fast paced, short book, good for discussion about gender activities, labeling, doing whatever interests you
October 18, 2024
Fishel needs to decide on a charity project for his bar mitzvah. He wants to learn how to knit socks so he can donate them to kids in homeless shelters, but his Bubby won't teach him. When he joins a knitting club at school, his best friend mocks him. Fish thinks knitting shouldn’t be just for girls, and finds a way to make his project a success. A great book about combating stereotypes.
May 23, 2023
Simple and direct in conveying that gender stereotypes should go to the wayside. Good message for a younger person or really any person.
August 24, 2020
Review by Lisa Pineo
*I received this eARC from NetGalley and Orca Book Publishers in return for an honest review.
My ratings: * I hated it ** It was okay *** I liked it **** Really good ***** Great
TW (trigger warnings): bullying, enforced gender roles
Fish Out of Water by Joanne Levy is a middle grade novel about a boy who isn't interested in “normal” masculine pursuits and just wants to learn to knit without it being a big deal to everyone. 4 stars
Description from Orca Currents:
"Twelve-year-old Fishel (Fish) Rosner doesn't like regular "boy" things. He hates sports and would prefer to read or do crafts instead of climbing trees or riding dirt bikes with his friends. He also loves to dance. But all his interests are considered "girly." Fish doesn't get why that's a bad thing. He's just interested in different things than other boys. When he asks his Bubby to teach him to knit, she tells him to go play outside. When he begs his mom to take him to Zumba, she enrolls him in water polo instead. Why does everyone else get to decide what Fish should or shouldn't do?"
Fishel (Fish) Rosner is a Jewish boy trying to figure out what to do for his mitzvah (good deeds) project. He's inspired by his Bubby (grandmother) who knits socks for the community and wants to learn from her. He's shot down though, hearing that boys don't knit. They also get signed up to participate in water polo instead of Zumba, which he'd much rather do. While with his best friend he sees a notice about a knitting club starting up at school and thinks it's the answer to learning to knit on his own. Instead of being encouraging his friend makes fun of him and they get into an argument, which escalates into his other friends being mad at him as well. All he wants to do is knit!
I am a sucker for books that fight gender roles and this book didn't disappoint. In a straight forward way the author shows Fish struggling with his friends and family who are trying to put him in the “normal boy” box, while he is quietly figuring out what his new passions could be. So what if they are typically done by girls? The theme and message are strong throughout the book and ends in a satisfying way. While I'm not the target audience (mom to a middle grade reader), I found this book to be a great addition to the diverse middle grade readers on the market and also learned a bit about Jewish culture. Definitely recommended. #orcabook
*I received this eARC from NetGalley and Orca Book Publishers in return for an honest review.
My ratings: * I hated it ** It was okay *** I liked it **** Really good ***** Great
TW (trigger warnings): bullying, enforced gender roles
Fish Out of Water by Joanne Levy is a middle grade novel about a boy who isn't interested in “normal” masculine pursuits and just wants to learn to knit without it being a big deal to everyone. 4 stars
Description from Orca Currents:
"Twelve-year-old Fishel (Fish) Rosner doesn't like regular "boy" things. He hates sports and would prefer to read or do crafts instead of climbing trees or riding dirt bikes with his friends. He also loves to dance. But all his interests are considered "girly." Fish doesn't get why that's a bad thing. He's just interested in different things than other boys. When he asks his Bubby to teach him to knit, she tells him to go play outside. When he begs his mom to take him to Zumba, she enrolls him in water polo instead. Why does everyone else get to decide what Fish should or shouldn't do?"
Fishel (Fish) Rosner is a Jewish boy trying to figure out what to do for his mitzvah (good deeds) project. He's inspired by his Bubby (grandmother) who knits socks for the community and wants to learn from her. He's shot down though, hearing that boys don't knit. They also get signed up to participate in water polo instead of Zumba, which he'd much rather do. While with his best friend he sees a notice about a knitting club starting up at school and thinks it's the answer to learning to knit on his own. Instead of being encouraging his friend makes fun of him and they get into an argument, which escalates into his other friends being mad at him as well. All he wants to do is knit!
I am a sucker for books that fight gender roles and this book didn't disappoint. In a straight forward way the author shows Fish struggling with his friends and family who are trying to put him in the “normal boy” box, while he is quietly figuring out what his new passions could be. So what if they are typically done by girls? The theme and message are strong throughout the book and ends in a satisfying way. While I'm not the target audience (mom to a middle grade reader), I found this book to be a great addition to the diverse middle grade readers on the market and also learned a bit about Jewish culture. Definitely recommended. #orcabook
September 2, 2020
Thank you to the author for sending me an eARC of this book.
I really enjoyed this story about Fishel (aka Fish), and his desire to learn to knit when not everyone around him supports his interest.
Fish's Bubby knits the most wonderful socks; he thinks they feel like a hug. When he decides he wants to learn how to knit socks for his bar mitzvah project to do good deeds, he asks his Bubby to help him, but she says that knitting is not for boys. He starts to think the idea might be too difficult to achieve until he discover that the knitting club meets at school during the lunch hour. When he tells his best friend, Seth, that he's going to join, Seth makes fun of him for wanting to be a girl and rejects him for other friends. Fish can't understand why wanting to pursue this interest is frowned up, and why he can't just do the activities that interest him regardless of his gender. He also runs into resistance in his family when his step-dad wants him to play water polo, and Fish secretly switches to a Zumba class for seniors because he loves to dance. As he continues to do what he likes, he finds supportive people who encourage him, and help him turn his project into something he never could have imagined.
What I liked most about this story is the way it addresses gender stereotypes, and how it demonstrates that labeling as behavior as "for girls" is a sexist comment. I think it's extremely important that kids are encouraged to pursue their passions without being teased or ridiculed for them, and we need to challenge those assumptions and the language used to make them more inclusive for everyone. Not only does this story help Fish broaden the minds of those who believe in more traditional gender roles, but it also shows the willingness of people to change (and a long kept secret comes to light as a result that supports Fish and those important to him). I also really enjoyed the ownvoices Jewish representation in the story.
The Orca Currents books are contemporary, high interest books that are short in length for developing readers. This one is recommended for readers age 10-14 who are not reading at grade level. If you aren't familiar with these books, I highly recommend you check them out, and Fish Out of Water would be a great one to start with.
I really enjoyed this story about Fishel (aka Fish), and his desire to learn to knit when not everyone around him supports his interest.
Fish's Bubby knits the most wonderful socks; he thinks they feel like a hug. When he decides he wants to learn how to knit socks for his bar mitzvah project to do good deeds, he asks his Bubby to help him, but she says that knitting is not for boys. He starts to think the idea might be too difficult to achieve until he discover that the knitting club meets at school during the lunch hour. When he tells his best friend, Seth, that he's going to join, Seth makes fun of him for wanting to be a girl and rejects him for other friends. Fish can't understand why wanting to pursue this interest is frowned up, and why he can't just do the activities that interest him regardless of his gender. He also runs into resistance in his family when his step-dad wants him to play water polo, and Fish secretly switches to a Zumba class for seniors because he loves to dance. As he continues to do what he likes, he finds supportive people who encourage him, and help him turn his project into something he never could have imagined.
What I liked most about this story is the way it addresses gender stereotypes, and how it demonstrates that labeling as behavior as "for girls" is a sexist comment. I think it's extremely important that kids are encouraged to pursue their passions without being teased or ridiculed for them, and we need to challenge those assumptions and the language used to make them more inclusive for everyone. Not only does this story help Fish broaden the minds of those who believe in more traditional gender roles, but it also shows the willingness of people to change (and a long kept secret comes to light as a result that supports Fish and those important to him). I also really enjoyed the ownvoices Jewish representation in the story.
The Orca Currents books are contemporary, high interest books that are short in length for developing readers. This one is recommended for readers age 10-14 who are not reading at grade level. If you aren't familiar with these books, I highly recommend you check them out, and Fish Out of Water would be a great one to start with.
February 10, 2026
“I’m a boy, and I’m crying. So boys do cry. And if they want to, they can do things like knitting and going to Zumba. None of these things make me less of a boy!” (88)
Fishel Rosner, called Fish, doesn’t like playing or even watching sports or some other traditionally “boy” activities, but he does have many interests. For one, he is preparing for his upcoming Bar Mitzvah and needs a project to give of himself to his community.
When visiting his Bubby (grandmother) and Zaida (grandfather), he watches Bubby knit her famous socks and thinks about how they not only look great but feel like a hug. He then decides he wants to learn to knit and make socks as part of his project. But his grandmother refuses to teach him, saying, “Knitting isn’t for boys.” (11)
When a lunch-time knitting club is announced at school, Fish goes, but he loses his friends in the process. His best friend Seth says, ‘You want to do something girly?” (24), and Seth and their two other friends begin to bully and exclude Fish.
Fish is welcomed by the other club members— four girls—and especially the teacher-advisor. When he tells her of his concerns about how other people don’t get it that a boy may want to knit, Ms. Harper shares how she was perceived as the only woman in some of her college math classes. However, she does explain that before he can knit socks there will be a lot of basics to learn which won’t be in time for his project.
After Fish’s mother signs him up for water polo at the Jewish Community Center, he ditches the class and takes the only other offering, Zumba for Seniors, where he has a lot of fun. When his stepfather finds out, he is really mad, and Fish tells his mother how he feels. Together they plan a bar mitzvah project that would work and not only give back to the community but involve members of the community.
Meanwhile Seth learns that “…telling someone he acts like a girl and meaning it as an insult is insulting to all girls.” (110)
This is a sweet story presenting a vital lesson about gender stereotyping which would be advantageous for middle grade students to read, possibly in a book club where it could lead to meaningful discussions.
Fishel Rosner, called Fish, doesn’t like playing or even watching sports or some other traditionally “boy” activities, but he does have many interests. For one, he is preparing for his upcoming Bar Mitzvah and needs a project to give of himself to his community.
When visiting his Bubby (grandmother) and Zaida (grandfather), he watches Bubby knit her famous socks and thinks about how they not only look great but feel like a hug. He then decides he wants to learn to knit and make socks as part of his project. But his grandmother refuses to teach him, saying, “Knitting isn’t for boys.” (11)
When a lunch-time knitting club is announced at school, Fish goes, but he loses his friends in the process. His best friend Seth says, ‘You want to do something girly?” (24), and Seth and their two other friends begin to bully and exclude Fish.
Fish is welcomed by the other club members— four girls—and especially the teacher-advisor. When he tells her of his concerns about how other people don’t get it that a boy may want to knit, Ms. Harper shares how she was perceived as the only woman in some of her college math classes. However, she does explain that before he can knit socks there will be a lot of basics to learn which won’t be in time for his project.
After Fish’s mother signs him up for water polo at the Jewish Community Center, he ditches the class and takes the only other offering, Zumba for Seniors, where he has a lot of fun. When his stepfather finds out, he is really mad, and Fish tells his mother how he feels. Together they plan a bar mitzvah project that would work and not only give back to the community but involve members of the community.
Meanwhile Seth learns that “…telling someone he acts like a girl and meaning it as an insult is insulting to all girls.” (110)
This is a sweet story presenting a vital lesson about gender stereotyping which would be advantageous for middle grade students to read, possibly in a book club where it could lead to meaningful discussions.
January 3, 2023
🐟🐟🐠Fish Out of Water🐟🐠🐟
Fishel Rosner (Fish), is struggling to find his project for his bar mitzvah. One day, inspiration strikes when he watches his grandmother knit socks. So he decides to learn how to knit only to be discouraged by his grandmother, who refuses to teach him to knit because he is a boy. He becomes even more aware of the stereotypes that his mother and her husband force upon him. Darren signs him up for water polo when he would rather attend Zumba classes. So, when Fish also joins a knitting club, his friendship with Seth is fragile as Seth throws out sexist accusations. Fish Out of Water is an important read about enjoying what we love, and the damage that gender stereotypes can inflict.
In the span of 123 pages, Fish Out of Water manages to produce a decent plot line with important themes, and a likable protagonist. This was a quick read, but it was also an important one. It talks about how harmful and destructive gender stereotypes can be. Fish is interested in things that others deem "girly" and being open about his passions only makes some relentlessly make fun of him.
Fish deals with his own emotions. He is confused about why people say that knitting is only a girl's thing, or why his stepdad only wants him to do sports and not dance. Fish's relationship with his grandmother was sweet, but their difference in views caused a rift. While all was well between them, he reveals his true colors, saying harmful stereotypes that threaten to end their relationship. It was sad to see Fish realize that his friend just couldn't accept him for who he is.
The story has a light-hearted tone and ends with an ending that wasn't a typical happily-ever-after but involved Fish finding happiness.
✅PLOT
✅CHARACTERS
Fishel Rosner (Fish), is struggling to find his project for his bar mitzvah. One day, inspiration strikes when he watches his grandmother knit socks. So he decides to learn how to knit only to be discouraged by his grandmother, who refuses to teach him to knit because he is a boy. He becomes even more aware of the stereotypes that his mother and her husband force upon him. Darren signs him up for water polo when he would rather attend Zumba classes. So, when Fish also joins a knitting club, his friendship with Seth is fragile as Seth throws out sexist accusations. Fish Out of Water is an important read about enjoying what we love, and the damage that gender stereotypes can inflict.
In the span of 123 pages, Fish Out of Water manages to produce a decent plot line with important themes, and a likable protagonist. This was a quick read, but it was also an important one. It talks about how harmful and destructive gender stereotypes can be. Fish is interested in things that others deem "girly" and being open about his passions only makes some relentlessly make fun of him.
Fish deals with his own emotions. He is confused about why people say that knitting is only a girl's thing, or why his stepdad only wants him to do sports and not dance. Fish's relationship with his grandmother was sweet, but their difference in views caused a rift. While all was well between them, he reveals his true colors, saying harmful stereotypes that threaten to end their relationship. It was sad to see Fish realize that his friend just couldn't accept him for who he is.
The story has a light-hearted tone and ends with an ending that wasn't a typical happily-ever-after but involved Fish finding happiness.
✅PLOT
✅CHARACTERS
August 24, 2020
I received an ARC of FISH OUT OF WATER by Joanne Levy thanks to the publisher through NetGalley.
Release date: August 18, 2020
Summary from Goodreads:
"Twelve-year-old Fishel (Fish) Rosner doesn't like regular "boy" things. He hates sports and would prefer to read or do crafts instead of climbing trees or riding dirt bikes with his friends. He also loves to dance. But all his interests are considered "girly." Fish doesn't get why that's a bad thing. He's just interested in different things than other boys. When he asks his Bubby to teach him to knit, she tells him to go play outside. When he begs his mom to take him to Zumba, she enrolls him in water polo instead. Why does everyone else get to decide what Fish should or shouldn't do?"
Review:
This is a really quick read (like 1.5 hours), and is amazing for younger audiences. This is categorized as a middle grade, and I would probably put it on the early middle grade end. It touches on gender stereotypes and bullying in a really easy-to-understand way. It explains how to react when others (friends and family) try to shame you for doing an activity that is not traditionally accepted by your biological sex. Overall, the book was really sweet and the perfect length for the age group. Definitely should be read by the 3rd-6th grade audiences and normalize the idea of doing what you want to do regardless of the opinions of others.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
Release date: August 18, 2020
Summary from Goodreads:
"Twelve-year-old Fishel (Fish) Rosner doesn't like regular "boy" things. He hates sports and would prefer to read or do crafts instead of climbing trees or riding dirt bikes with his friends. He also loves to dance. But all his interests are considered "girly." Fish doesn't get why that's a bad thing. He's just interested in different things than other boys. When he asks his Bubby to teach him to knit, she tells him to go play outside. When he begs his mom to take him to Zumba, she enrolls him in water polo instead. Why does everyone else get to decide what Fish should or shouldn't do?"
Review:
This is a really quick read (like 1.5 hours), and is amazing for younger audiences. This is categorized as a middle grade, and I would probably put it on the early middle grade end. It touches on gender stereotypes and bullying in a really easy-to-understand way. It explains how to react when others (friends and family) try to shame you for doing an activity that is not traditionally accepted by your biological sex. Overall, the book was really sweet and the perfect length for the age group. Definitely should be read by the 3rd-6th grade audiences and normalize the idea of doing what you want to do regardless of the opinions of others.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
February 26, 2021
The title, Fish out of water, is a brilliant play on words that reflects the central theme of this story by Joanne Levy. Twelve year old protagonist Fishel Rosner, who along with his best friend Seth, contemplate the time honoured tradition of "bar mitzvah". Fishel, aka "Fish" ponders what he should do, as "a bar mitzvah is where you have to do a good deed project, giving something meaningful to your community by giving of yourself." p. 6
Following a chance conversation, Fish gains the self confidence and courage to pursue what is in his heart, his passion.
As his personal convictions strengthen, this allows him to develop his idea on a scale he never imagined. All the while these actions help him overcome the preconceived societal ideas often unspoken... assumed gender roles.
l loved the way the author explained the meaning behind this ancient tradition and then wraps, and develops the entire story around a "project where Fishel Rosner embodies the true meaning of bar mitzvah" and discovers something wonderful about himself and his community!
Highly Recommended for readers of any age!!!!!!
Five Stars!!!!!!!!!!
Fish out of water: published by Orca Book Publishers
Series : Orca Currents; 123p.
Following a chance conversation, Fish gains the self confidence and courage to pursue what is in his heart, his passion.
As his personal convictions strengthen, this allows him to develop his idea on a scale he never imagined. All the while these actions help him overcome the preconceived societal ideas often unspoken... assumed gender roles.
l loved the way the author explained the meaning behind this ancient tradition and then wraps, and develops the entire story around a "project where Fishel Rosner embodies the true meaning of bar mitzvah" and discovers something wonderful about himself and his community!
Highly Recommended for readers of any age!!!!!!
Five Stars!!!!!!!!!!
Fish out of water: published by Orca Book Publishers
Series : Orca Currents; 123p.
November 17, 2020
For his bar mitzvah, Fishel "Fish" Rosner needs to come up with a mitzvah -- good deeds -- project. Fish is coming up empty until he is struck with a brilliant idea. His grandmother makes one-of-a-kind socks and Fish feels that wearing those socks is like getting hugs from his grandmother -- and he wants to learn to knit so he can make socks for kids who could use a sock-hug. Problem is everyone around him, including his grandmother, claims knitting is for girls. Fish struggles to be true to himself as a boy who doesn't enjoy "boy" things like sports but loves "girl" things like crafts and dancing and chafes at having activities being genderized when there is no logical reason they should be. While all of Fish's problems are fairly painlessly resolved, this short, high-interest story is a quick, upbeat read perfect for reluctant readers as well as opening conversations on the absurdity of activities being assigned to a single gender.
August 7, 2020
The subject matter of Fish Out of Water is an important one to explore and is probably relatable to many kids. It reiterates the importance of acceptance and instead of trying to change people, we should celebrate everyone’s differences. This book reminded me of the picture book Oliver Button is a Sissy in that it teaches kids that there shouldn’t be only things that are designated for boys or girls even though society often likes to put us in a box especially according to gender. I like that it shows how we can and should defy stereotypes. I also liked how Jewish faith is incorporated into the story which is often underrepresented. I think my fourth grade students would enjoy this book and could benefit from reflecting on its strong message and theme.
August 17, 2020
Fishel (Fish) Rosner is trying to do two things: find an activity he and his grandmother can do together AND an idea for his mitzvah project. He thinks he might’ve found just the thing: knitting! But when his grandmother, best friend, and step dad question his choice, he starts to wonder if there really are certain activities meant only for girls and certain activities meant only for boys.
This is a sweet story about acceptance, gender stereotypes, and courage. Perfect for fans of A Boy Named Queen.
I really like that the book is under 150 pages. I think the length will really appeal to my sixth graders.
This is a sweet story about acceptance, gender stereotypes, and courage. Perfect for fans of A Boy Named Queen.
I really like that the book is under 150 pages. I think the length will really appeal to my sixth graders.
August 7, 2020
I am a little older than the intended audience for this but it was still an enjoyable read. It had great Jewish representation and a great takedown of toxic masculinity, while still being aimed at a younger audience. This book should go in every middle school classroom! Full review at The More We Read!
***Thank you to NetGalley and Orca Publishers for the eARC in exchange for an honest review***
***Thank you to NetGalley and Orca Publishers for the eARC in exchange for an honest review***
August 26, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley for allowing me to read this in exchange for an honest review.
This was a very short middle-grade novel about a boy named Fishel who has different interests and passions than his other male friends. He doesn’t care about hockey; he just wants to knit and do Zumba! Why isn’t it okay for a boy to do “girly” things? This book was cute, and I liked that it had some detail about the main character’s Jewish background. I think many kids will relate to Fish being self-conscious about his interests.
This was a very short middle-grade novel about a boy named Fishel who has different interests and passions than his other male friends. He doesn’t care about hockey; he just wants to knit and do Zumba! Why isn’t it okay for a boy to do “girly” things? This book was cute, and I liked that it had some detail about the main character’s Jewish background. I think many kids will relate to Fish being self-conscious about his interests.
September 27, 2020
This my first intro to both Joanne Levy's writing and Orca Currents, and I am so impressed with both! Fishel Rosner ("Fish") is a delightful character who refuses to be boxed in by what society says boys should like and not like while he searches for a meaningful mitzvah project to do for his bar mitzvah. I am so impressed with Levy's ability to write a well-fleshed out story in such a short format, and highly recommend this high interest-low reading level book for all middle graders, regardless of reading level or gender!
August 10, 2020
I loved this middle grade book! The cover and title appealed to me but I didn't know what a good story I was about to enjoy. This is the story of a young boy who likes to participate in activities normally thought of as for girls. All in all our author deals with prejudice and expectations of others can be wrong, and can be changed. I look forward to sharing this book with my fourth grade ELA students. Thank you to Netgalley for this free ebook in exchange for an honest review.
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