New fish bowl

Question
Hi I have been given a new fish bowl as I was speaking to someone about buying fish for my kids. I have no idea what I am doing when it comes to fish :( and reading information I am starting to think a bowl is not a good thing! but as I don't want to offend the person who bought it for me I want to use it what is the best fish i can put in the bowl and what accessories do I need the size of the bowl is approximated 8.6inch across the widest point 5.5inch high and a circumference of 28.7inch. (I will be looking at getting a tank with pump, filter, lights etc in november as I have one ordered)

Answer
Hi Carl:  The only fish that should ever live in a bowl is a male betta.  Just add water, and water conditioner and they are good to go.  They do not need a filter or an air pump.  They do like to be warm though so if you can keep your tank about 78 degrees he will be happy... decorate as you with with gravel and plants... choose them for you... trust me... he wont care... dave