How To Be A Goldfish By: Jane Baird Warren

Genre: Realistic Fiction
Age Recommendation: Grade 7/8

"How To Be A Goldfish" is told from the perspectives of Lizzie and David.  The story is set in 1981, but does also include events from the past.  Lizzie lives in Scotch Gully with her mother and grandmother.  Next door, lives Harry, who is like a grandfather to Lizzie.  Everyday after school, Lizzie heads to Harry's for a snack and to help on his farm.  David lives in the city.  He and his mother used to live with his grandfather, but now they live with his mom's boyfriend.  Sadly, David's grandfather recently passed away and David is having trouble with this, as well as the bullies at his new school.  Through the reading of David's grandfather's will, Lizzie and David meet and must work together to save the farm Harry lives on, all while uncovering some family secrets.  This is an interesting read. The story includes historic experiences of Home Children, unwed mothers, and the LGBTQ+ community.  I recommend this book to those who enjoy historical or realistic fiction.