About BC Books Online
BC Books Online was created for anyone interested in BC-published books, and with librarians especially in mind. We'd like to make it easy for library staff to learn about books from BC publishers - both new releases and backlist titles - so you can inform your patrons and keep your collections up to date.
Our site features print books and ebooks - both new releases and backlist titles - all of which are available to order through regular trade channels. Browse our subject categories to find books of interest or create and export lists by category to cross-reference with your library's current collection.
A quick tip: When reviewing the "Browse by Category" listings, please note that these are based on standardized BISAC Subject Codes supplied by the books' publishers. You will find additional selections, grouped by theme or region, in our "BC Reading Lists."
Description
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?
This short novel is a high-interest, low-reading level book for middle-grade readers who are building reading skills, want a quick read or say they don’t like to read!
Contributor Notes
Joanne Levy is the author of a number of books for young people, including Double Trouble from the Orca Currents line and the middle-grade novels Crushing It and the Red Maple–nominated Small Medium At Large. She lives in Clinton, Ontario.
Recommended Age, Grade, and Reading Levels
- Age:
- 9 to 12
- Grade:
- 4 to 7
- Reading age:
- 9 to 12
Awards
- Commended, CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens, starred selection
- Commended, Children’s Book Council & National Council for Social Studies Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People
- , Saskatchewan Young Readers' Choice Awards - Diamond Willow
- Winner, Sydney Taylor Shmooze - Sydney Taylor Mock Award
Editorial Reviews
“These quality, relatable novels are ideal for students at the middle school level who benefit from ultra-readable formats.”
— School Library Journal (SLJ)
“Though brief, this text masterfully connects the toxic masculinity to its roots in deep misogyny, making Fish a hero people of all genders can stand up and cheer for. All readers will appreciate this book’s nuanced messaging around gender roles and trusting yourself.”
— Kirkus Reviews
“Highly recommended...Fishel’s story zips along and the vocabulary and length make it accessible even for reluctant readers…Readers will support [Fish] throughout his struggle to pursue his own interests and rise beyond labeling.”
— Jewish Book Council (JBC)
“Uplifting, gentle…Exudes inter-generational warmth, family love, and friendship.”
— Association of Jewish Libraries
“An excellent story about gender roles and growing up…Fast-paced, and the ending is both satisfying and heartwarming…An excellent read-aloud choice, and its contents would provide many opportunities for discussion. Highly Recommended.”
— CM: Canadian Review of Materials
