Dickens & Rumi
Cover of DON'T TRUST FISH

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DON'T TRUST FISH

Neil Sharpson

A hilarious and educational manifesto about the treachery of fish. (Ages 3 to 7)

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At a glance

Recommended ageNot listed

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes2/5
  • Violence2/5
  • Death of a character1/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Good role models4/5
  • Kindness & empathy4/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character1/5
Why this rating?

Concerns about the fate of characters are present, though not centered on primary deaths.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Very mild language, typical for middle-grade fiction.

Romance1/5
Why this rating?

Mild, age-appropriate middle school social dynamics.

Frightening scenes2/5
Why this rating?

Threatening entities, secrecy, and the feeling of being hunted may create suspense, without evidence of extreme horror.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Mild science-fiction threats, pursuit, and action are present, but violence appears limited and not graphically described.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist is portrayed as facing fear and consequences to help and protect a friend, rather than acting recklessly.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

Encourages imaginative thinking about alien life and the moral complexities of contact.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

The story appears to explore outsiders and social difference, but evidence is limited for a broad range of human identities or backgrounds.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

The book may prompt discussion of science-fiction ideas and social belonging, but it is primarily a narrative rather than instructional.

Kindness & empathy4/5
Why this rating?

Empathy, acceptance, friendship, and caring for someone different appear to be important parts of the story.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

The story appears to emphasize loyalty, empathy, friendship, and standing up for someone viewed as an outsider.

Good role models4/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist appears to develop integrity and take meaningful risks to protect a friend, despite fear and pressure.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in DON'T TRUST FISH would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in DON'T TRUST FISH, and what caused that change?
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These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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