Book Review: The Thing About Jellyfish

By Ali Benjamin 

5 Stars 

The Thing About Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin is a quiet, thoughtful book for middle schoolers. It’s about Suzy, a girl trying to make sense of a sudden loss by latching onto a scientific theory involving, yes, jellyfish. That’s about as much plot as I’ll give you, because this book works best when you experience Suzy’s emotional journey firsthand, not through a summary; it hits harder that way. What really makes this book special is how Benjamin mixes science, grief, and the awkwardness of early adolescence without making the whole thing feel like a Very Special Episode. Suzy is a wonderfully real narrator: she’s smart but doesn’t have everything figured out; she’s earnest but sometimes clueless in the way only a middle-schooler can be. You might occasionally want to pat her on the shoulder or gently tell her, “Maybe don’t Google that at midnight,” but her curiosity and sincerity make her incredibly endearing. Someone would like this book if they like stories that dig into big emotions without getting melodramatic. It's especially great for readers who love science, or at least enjoy the type of science facts you blurt out at the dinner table that make everyone stare at you. Benjamin uses jellyfish biology as both a metaphor and a coping mechanism, and somehow it never feels forced. You end up learning cool things while also getting your heart tugged in sneaky, unexpected ways. The writing is beautiful, the pacing gentle, and the tone honest. This isn’t a book full of big twists or dramatic reveals; it’s more of a quiet walk with your thoughts, the kind that leaves you a little sad but also a little awed. I’d recommend it to thoughtful readers, teachers, or anyone who appreciates stories about growing up, friendship, and making sense of the messier parts of being human. 

Reviewed by Alfina as part of the Teen Reviewer, opens a new window program

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