The Potion Experiment
Elle McFadzean
Independently Published (2025)
ISBN: 978-1763844100
Reviewed by Lindsay DeRollo for Reader Views (12/2025)
The Potion Experiment by Elle McFadzean is an absolutely enchanting, fun-filled adventure for middle-grade readers that cleverly mixes magic with science in unexpected (and hilarious!) ways. The story follows thirteen-year-old scientist Ange, who is suddenly transported to a magical world…into the body of her new mischievous spell casting counterpart, Eva! Talk about science and magic gone haywire! Ange must now quickly figure out a way to switch them back before they get caught. They must learn to set their differences aside and combine their talent, intelligence, and imagination together to get them back to safety.
This charming story teaches young readers a great lesson about the importance of friendship, teamwork, hard work, believing in yourself, and how different perspectives can complement each other in surprising– and magical– ways. A lot of people don’t believe that science and magic can co-exist, but this creative story uses the power of the imagination and rich world building that is believable and puts the reader front and center of the storyline.
Children will love the whimsical and vibrant atmosphere that will transport them into another world. The story flows effortlessly and has a nice, fast pace to it that’s full of excitement, wit, and plenty of plot twists that will keep children guessing until the very last page. It’s age-appropriate and relatable to middle-grade readers, and they will love the friendly bantering amongst the two main characters.
The two main characters’ mismatched personalities and perspectives create a very entertaining and surprisingly heartfelt dynamic. Ange’s intelligence, practicality, and determination perfectly balance out Eva’s spirited personality and creativity. Many friendships in real life are like this as well (opposites attract!). Despite their humorous disagreements, you can see that they care about each other.
The bright and detailed cover design and small sketches throughout this story do a great job of capturing the whimsical, vivid atmosphere as well. They are very well-detailed and full of life!
I like how the story also explores themes of identity, seeing life through another person’s eyes, and nature vs. nurture. It’s written in a way that young readers can understand, and it really makes you think. It will spark their curiosity and make them eager to learn more about the characters and their home environments.
I highly recommend The Potion Experiment by Elle McFadzean to all middle-grade fantasy lovers who are looking for a fun and entertaining adventure with a twist of science, empathy, and self-discovery.