Not Norman: A Goldfish Story

This book is very cute. I got if for my four year old after we got her a goldfish and she loves it. If you’re thinking of getting your little one a goldfish (especially over any other pet) this book is perfect!

So cute and yet, kind of deep.I really enjoyed this story for many reasons. The illustrations are simple and cute, the main character is a person of color (the story has nothing to do with him being a person of color), there are cute animals in it (I'm an animal-lover), and there's a good message. What's not to like?This is a great "don't judge a book by its cover'' story. It can also be helpful in teaching kids about the importance and rewards of taking responsibility for choices and caring for others (general relationship stuff).It's not a long story so I won't say too much and give it all way. I will say that not all kids get to have pets, which is sad, but I like that this story teaches that sometimes you get what's best for you instead of what you want, which is more than most of us deserve.Highly recommended.

A wonderful story about disappointment, but learning to love and being appreciative of what you have. The protagonist is a little boy of color, which is a bonus for me and our family. The story itself transcends race and gender, but representation is sorely needed in children's books, so I jumped at this one when I saw it. The little boy in the story wants a pet, but instead of getting something "cool" like a dog or a cat, he gets Norman, a fish. And Norman just swims in his bowl and does not do cool things. Eventually, the little boy comes to realize that Norman actually is pretty cool after spending time with him and getting to know Norman. I love children's books that are filled with bright vivid colors and my son loves shouting, "Not Norman!" This book has been a go to during Christmas and around birthday time as a reminder that you can't always get what you want, but to learn to love what you have. It's also a good book to help teach and show that you can't judge someone just from appearances. Great addition to your library!

When you were little, did you imagine the perfect pet for you? This boy did! He thought about a pet who could run and catch. Or chase strings and climb trees. Maybe a soft, furry pet to sleep on his bed. But what he got was Norman the goldfish.⁣This book has a great message about handling disappointment and how you shouldn’t be so quick to judge. After reading this book, I bet your kids will want to talk about the perfect pets for them!⁣

Great book... 6 yr old loved it!!

This book was a Christmas gift for my 2 year old son who, as of lately, has been obsessed with everything "Superhero." So when dad got him a set of superhero books, I wasn't sure what would become of "Not Norman." After sitting and reading it once with my little guy, this has become his favorite bedtime request. Yes, even more so that his superhero books. Even my 7 year old, who's into chapter books, makes her way into her brothers room at night, just to hear about Norman, the "unwanted" goldfish.I especially appreciate that the main character is black, yet the story crosses all color lines. I love that my son can see himself reflected in a story about everyday kid adventures! Highly recommended.

I love this story! I’m read it to my first grade students and my 10-year-old son! They ALL enjoyed this story!

I recently purchased some goldfish, and I wanted a good story to read to my 3 & 4 year old grandchildren. This book is exactly what I was looking for.

Very pleased!

Nice book

My daughter (1 1/2 years old) loved this book so much that we had to return the copy we had to the library and buy her her own copy!She loves Norman and especially likes it when he blows his bubbles! A great read and although my husband and I have read it so many times now we never get bored! Although 3 times in one night is a bit much!A really good story and just goes to show that goldfish are worth having as a pet!

Not as good condition as I thought it would be

This is a great book for young children, I read this book to a group of children of various ages and they all enjoyed it.