
Written by Jennifer L. Holm
Book #1 in the The Fourteenth Goldfish Series series
A girl meets a boy who might be her grandfather, defying age and science.
Ellie, an eleven-year-old who dislikes change, encounters a peculiar boy who resembles her grandfather, a scientist obsessed with immortality. Could he have unlocked eternal youth? As Ellie navigates this bizarre situation, she must confront questions about life, death, and the limits of science. With humor and heart, this tale explores the wonders of possibility and the bonds of family.
“I think what you wear on Halloween is important. It says something about you--who you are and what you want to be. There's got to be a reason so many girls go around dressed as princesses and witches.”
— from the book
Believe in the possible . . . with this New York Times bestseller by three-time Newbery Honor winner Jennifer L. Holm. A perfect read about a child’s relationship with her grandfather! Galileo. Newton. Salk. Oppenheimer. Science can change the world . . . but can it go too far? Eleven-year-old Ellie has never liked change. She misses fifth grade. She misses her old best friend. She even misses her dearly departed goldfish. Then one day a strange boy shows up. He’s bossy. He’s cranky. And weirdly enough . . . he looks a lot like Ellie’s grandfather, a scientist who’s always been slightly obsessed with immortality. Could this gawky teenager really be Grandpa Melvin? Has he finally found the secret to eternal youth? With a lighthearted touch and plenty of humor, Jennifer Holm celebrates the wonder of science and explores fascinating questions about life and death, family and friendship, immortality . . . and possibility. Look for EXCLUSIVE NEW MATERIAL in the paperback–including Ellie’s gallery of scientists and other STEM-appropriate features. And don’t miss the much-anticipated sequel, The Third Mushroom! “Warm, witty, and wise.” –The New York Times “Written in a clean, crisp style, with lively dialogue and wit, this highly accessible novel will find a ready audience.” –Booklist, Starred “Top-notch middle-grade fiction.” –Publishers Weekly, Starred * “Ellie’s memorable journey into the world of science will inspire readers to explore the world around them and celebrate the possible.” –Shelf Awareness, Starred “Awesomely strange and startlingly true-to-life. It makes you wonder what’s possible.” –Rebecca Stead, Newbery Medal-winning author of When You Reach Me25 STATE AWARD LISTS including the Sunshine State!
Would you like to live forever?
Is every scientific discovery good?
What might be the consequences of Melvin's discovery?
How does Ellie learn to think like a scientist?
What do you think is strange about the new jellyfish from Billy?
Think about your own grandfather. What would you ask him if you had the chance to meet him at the age of 14? What kind of child do you think he would be? Do you think your grandfather had the same kind of experiences as a young adult that you have now?
Surprise a reader with their next favorite book.
Spotted a mistake or something missing? Improve this page.
Are you the author or illustrator? Claim your book.
Top contributors: Grammy · Elaine R. · The Goodfather