The Strangest Fish [Hardcover]

Hicklebee's Picture Book of the Year 2024
A Kids Indie Next List Pick – American Booksellers Association

In this bewitching picture book debut from bestselling fantasy author Katherine Arden, a girl wins an odd-looking goldfish at a county fair that ends up being secretly magical.

When Daisy wins a funny-looking goldfish at a fair, she ignores the mean comments about its appearance. She doesn’t mind the dull scales and lumpy head—in fact, she thinks her goldfish is the prettiest thing in the world. However, as Daisy continues caring for the goldfish, something strange starts happening to it . . .

With lyrical writing and stunning illustrations, this enchanting story about a girl and her goldfish reveals—with a touch of magic— the transformative power of unconditional love and care.A Bank Street Best Book 2025
2025 Kansas NEA Reading Circle List

★ Arden’s lyrical, conversational text emphasizes the strong bond between Daisy and her new pet despite their limited time together; she makes clear that caring for another living being can alter us forever. With thick brushstrokes and a cool palette dominated by blues and browns, Marwan’s stunning pen, ink, and watercolor illustrations capture this unconditional nurturing bond, the concept of metamorphosis, and the transformative nature of autumn...A deeply empathetic look at the magic of love and compassion. —Kirkus Reviews, starred review

“Fantastical and beautiful. The Strangest Fish is an excellent book about friendship. Daisy wins October, the strangest fish, at the fair and tries her best to take care of them. A book you will want to read over and over.”