The Third Mushroom

by Jennifer L. Holm

[inlibrisveritas]

The Third Mushroom really surpassed my expectations. I had enjoyed The Fourteenth Goldfish, though I had a few issues with it, and I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from the second installment. I am so pleased with how this one turned out!

This sequel carries on a little bit after the first book ends, and expounds on the themes previous brought forth. We see more focus on friendships and their changes, what it means to live life, what it means to be family, and the importance of experimenting (both in life & in science). I think one of the best things about this book was its focus on changes and relationships. Friendships evolve and shift over time and people change. I love that it goes over the beauty of keeping a friendship as it is, as I think there is sometimes a little too much focus on pairing up in YA. I’m glad that there are middle-grade novels that embrace the normal friendships and let kids know there isn’t a need to rush off and find a soul mate anytime soon. There are a few moments as well where the focus returns to what it means to live and as a result how to deal with death, and those somber moments were really appreciated. And of course there is the science! I love seeing a young girl super interested in the sciences and even willing to get her hands dirty if need be.

Ellie has really matured in this one after her first long-term encounter with Melvin, she’s more comfortable in her skin at middle school and more comfortable asking questions. Her friendship with her grandfather really works well in this one too. Melvin isn’t as prickly as he was previously though he still has his moments, there are plenty of moments where we learn more about his life outside of the laboratory. He softens a bit and actually becomes far more likable. I love that the lessons they both learn individually are shared between them and that they have such a wonderful desire to see the other one happy and successful.

Overall, I think that The Third Mushroom was a really cute book with some great themes & ideas. The science is always a delight and I enjoyed seeing our MC really step out of her comfort zone and try new things. I think if you or a young person you know enjoyed the first book, then this is definitely one to pick up!

I received this for review purposes, all opinions are my own.