The Third Mushroom

Ellie's science experiment takes an unexpected turn when her grandfather comes to stay with her family. Having last seen him transformed into a teenager through his research, Ellie hopes to help him continue his work on reversing the aging process. As Ellie and Grandpa Melvin collaborate on her science fair project studying fruit flies, they discover new possibilities in longevity research. Their experiments lead them to examine fundamental questions about life, death, and scientific ethics. Meanwhile, Ellie navigates middle school challenges including evolving friendships, first crushes, and finding her place in the scientific community. Her growing understanding of science meshes with her personal journey of self-discovery. The book examines core themes of family bonds, the intersection of science and ethics, and how different generations can learn from each other. Through Ellie's story, readers explore the balance between extending life and accepting its natural progression.

Readers found this middle-grade novel relatable and engaging, appreciating how it balances science themes with personal relationships. Many parents noted it sparked discussions with their children about aging, loss, and scientific ethics. Readers liked: - The clear explanations of scientific concepts - The realistic grandmother-granddaughter relationship - The humor throughout - The handling of serious topics in an age-appropriate way Readers disliked: - Some felt it required reading the first book (The Fourteenth Goldfish) to fully understand - A few found the pacing slow in the middle sections Ratings: Goodreads: 4.2/5 (1,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (200+ ratings) Common Sense Media: 4/5 One parent reviewer wrote: "Opens up great conversations about science and ethics with my 10-year-old." A middle school teacher noted: "Students connect with Ellie's struggles while learning real scientific principles."

The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly A young girl works with her grandfather on scientific observations and experiments while discovering her place in the world during the summer of 1899.

The Science of Breakable Things by Tae Keller A middle schooler uses the scientific method to tackle her mother's depression and win an egg-drop competition.

The Care and Feeding of a Pet Black Hole by Michelle Cuevas An 11-year-old girl processes grief through science when a black hole follows her home from NASA and begins consuming everything in its path.

See You in the Cosmos by Jack Cheng A space-obsessed boy records messages for aliens on his iPod while embarking on a road trip to launch his golden pod into space.

The Fourteenth Goldfish by Jennifer L. Holm A girl's grandfather discovers the secret to reversing aging through science and moves in with her family as a teenage version of himself.

🧬 Author Jennifer L. Holm comes from a family of scientists, which influenced her ability to write accurately about scientific concepts in the book. 🔬 The book explores real scientific concepts like cellular regeneration and aging, weaving them naturally into the story of Ellie and her grandfather. 🏆 This sequel to "The Fourteenth Goldfish" was named a Junior Library Guild Selection and received recognition from the National Science Teachers Association. 🧪 The story includes references to actual scientists and their discoveries, including Robert Hooke (who first observed cells) and Elizabeth Blackburn (who studied telomeres). 🐌 The book's plot was partially inspired by real scientific research on organisms that appear to age backwards, such as the immortal jellyfish Turritopsis dohrnii.