Kelly Bennett (1)

The narrator of this book is not thrilled about his new pet goldfish and is ready to trade him in for a new pet. But little by little he grows accustomed to Norman and realizes what a great pet he makes.

This book is full of typical stuff for elementary school-age kids (birthday parties, class show-and-tell, scary sounds in the night, etc.) so it is very relatable. The story of Norman quietly stealing the narrator's heart is sweet and also can be used as a teaching tool for when children are show more initially unsure about something. This title is also notable for having an African-American child as the lead character without race being an issue. show less

A story about a boy who is always disappointed with his pet goldfish, Norman; everyone he knows seems to have a better, more exciting pet. Norman doesn't do much of anything but swim in a bowl. But after awhile, Norman begins to grow on the boy. The goldfish listens, he makes the boy laugh with his fish-tricks, and keeps the little boy company at night. Ultimately, the boy decides that rather than wishing for anything else but Norman, he can't think of any pet he'd rather have.

This book show more would offer a great basis for discussing the importance of enjoying and being grateful for what we have, instead of finding fault with what we have by concentrating more on what we don't have. It is a sweet, simple lesson about noticing the good things and looking at life with a positive, glass-half-full attitude. show less

Not Norman: A Goldfish Story by Kelly Bennett is one of the best books I’ve read so far this semester. It is about a boy who gets a pet goldfish even though he really wants a dog or a cat. By the end of the book he realizes that just because Norman cannot cuddle, he is still a good pet for all the things he can do. I also liked the illustrations and personification of Norman in the book. The pictures draw the reader’s attention by using bright colors and realistic pictures people can show more relate to. It also helps the reader understand the story by having the characters clearly express their emotions.For example, Norman frowns when he is sad because the dogs drank his water. The author personifies the fish, Norman, making him easier for the reader to relate to. For example, fish do not really listen to, smile at, or sing to people. The main message of this story is to give everyone a chance because they might be able to offer more than you know. show less

I liked this book about a goldfish named Norman. The main message from the book seemed to be to give someone a chance before you want to have nothing to do with them anymore. Giving people a chance and when you get to know them and not judge on first look or based off what other people say. Also how everyone is special in their own way. I liked how the author used “not Norman” throughout the book first as a negative then a positive for the young boy. The author showed as the boy began to show more care for the fish more the more he grew to love him and not want to trade him. It was a short and cute story about friendship and care. show less