Ellie Ment and the Material Matter – Book Review
I received an ARC of Ellie Ment and the Material of Matter by Bertie Stephens, and it was such a pleasure! I was very excited to read this book, published by Clean Planet Foundation, and I’m also excited to tell you all about it.
First off, the book has beautiful cover art and chapter art, as well as interior art inside. And it just helps add those fabulous little details that bring the story together and also shows that a lot of great care was put into the presentation of the book.
Now let’s dive into my spoiler-free review.
We are instantly drawn into a prologue at “three weeks before the start” with the introduction that everything in our world has an explanation. Yet, not everything can always be explained right here, right now. And boy, is that relatable!
And then we are introduced to Ellie Ment. We learn a little about her and the town of Hapsie before we dive deeper into the story. This thrilling new STEM-based adventure story combines the wonder of magic with the scientific method. Ellie is curious, strong-willed, and has a great sense of humor. She’s a character you can instantly relate to and want to root for.
The distinction between science and the paranormal begins to merge when Ellie’s school burns down in a flash of purple flames – yes, you read correctly. A creative tornado of revelations ensues, including secret societies, riddles that defy the fundamental rules of physics, and elemental wrist bracers that call forth nitrogen and other natural forces. And despite everything, Ellie holds fast to her scientific mind, which is equipped with more jam jars than you would imagine, courage, and reason.
In addition to being extremely amusing, Bertie Stephens’ story is also academically stimulating. The novel promotes curiosity, critical thinking, and the strength of asking “why?” STEM principles are skillfully incorporated throughout the narrative. Ellie is an excellent role model since she is intelligent, courageous, somewhat (well, a lot) stubborn, and completely endearing.
The chapters are divided well to make great pausing points in the book, but the story is so engaging, you may find yourself wanting to read straight through like I did. The chapter titles give you little hints of what is to come, which reminded me of A Series of Unfortunate Events (another favorite of mine).
The writing is incisive, humorous, and quick-paced, which makes it ideal for readers who like chaotic, brainy adventures. It challenges conventional wisdom, celebrates curiosity, and serves as a reminder that science itself is a field full of enchantment, mystery, and opportunity.
Whether you’re an adult who still remembers what it was like to have a million questions every day or a young reader who enjoys experimenting, Ellie Ment and the Material of Matter will pique your interest and make you smile.
This is the kind of story that keeps you thinking – and talking about it – long after you’ve finished the book.
It’s five glowing stars from me and I will definitely be recommending this book!