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 initially unsure about something. This title is also notable for having an African-American child as the lead character without race being an issue. ( )

Norman the goldfish isn’t what this little boy had in mind. He wanted a different kind of pet — one that could run and catch, or chase string and climb trees, a soft furry pet to sleep on his bed at night. Definitely not Norman. But when he tries to trade Norman for a "good pet," things don’t go as he planned. Could it be that Norman is a better pet than he thought?

a boy got a fish for his birthday as a present, at first he didn't want norman but not he loves having norman as his pet. Norman is wonderful to the boy and is always there for him
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I enjoyed reading this book because it is a excellent way to teach children how to appreciate the things that they have although, he or she may feel like they want something better. It gives a few different examples of why the little Norman should have accepted the type of pet that he was given in the first place. ( )

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 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. ( )