Fish: My Pet

Children's Literature - Debra Lampert-Rudman

My Pet Fish is part of a series of "My Pet" books by Weigl Publishers aimed at the 9- to 12-year-old reader interested in adding a fish to the family. Filled with dynamic photographs, though most are of goldfish-like fish, interesting chapters include "Water World," "Tanks for Everything," "Fish Tales and Fins" and "Pet Puzzlers". The "Pet Profiles" two-page spread features photos and descriptions of six fish suitable for the beginner aquarist (a word included in the 15-word "Words to Know" chapter listed on the last page). Answers to questions including "Do Fish Sleep?," "How Much Food Should I Feed My Pet Fish?" and "When Should a Fish Be Quarantined" as well as a selection of popular names for a future pet fish are included in the "Frequently Asked Questions" and "Pet Puzzlers" chapters. The book offers a colorful and graphically appealing overview of fish ownership that may be too simplistic for children truly interested in aquariums. "More Information" and "Websites" chapters offer opportunities for further study and research and may require assistance, however, the "More Information" chapter contains references to Animal Organizations; none specifically related to fish. Reviewer: Debra Lampert-Rudman