Early Book Review: The Fourteenth Goldfish by Jennifer Holm

The Fourteenth Goldfish is a middle grade novel by Jennifer Holm which is currently scheduled for release in August 26 2014.  Eleven-year-old Ellie has never liked change. She misses fifth grade, her best friend, and even her dearly departed goldfish. Then one day a strange boy shows up; he is bossy, cranky, and looks an awful lot like her scientist grandfather. Could this pimply boy really be Grandpa Melvin? Has he finally found the secret to eternal youth?

The Fourteenth Goldfish is a story that is fun, but still covers some big ideas. Ellie is a smart girl with an artistic mother that wants her to find her passion. Middle school is hard, especially when your best friend has found her passion, and it is nothing you have interested in. When Melvin comes on the scene, dressed in his grandfather clothes while looking like a 13 year old boy, Ellie discovers a lot about science, who she is, and what she loves. The characters are all realistic, and just interesting to read about as they all come to learn more about themselves and the cycle of life. A coming of age tale about finding yourself well and truly woven together with a story about both the wonders and dangers of science.

I enjoyed the The Fourteenth Goldfish, and think that most readers will enjoy it as well. those facing changes in life, such as entering middle school, growing apart from a good friend, or a change in family dynamic will find the book particularly relate-able. Holms comes through again with a great book.