Pond Scum

"Pond Scum" introduces Oliver, a somewhat antisocial boy who prefers TV to people, even pulling wings off flies. His life changes dramatically when his recently divorced mom moves the family to a quirky old house by a pond in a new town. The challenge isn't just adjusting to a new environment and siblings, but also dealing with the house's unusual guardians: creatures from the pond who clearly don't want them there. This humorous adventure explores themes of family dynamics, resilience in the face of change, and the journey of a child learning empathy and cooperation. It's a great read for children navigating new family structures or moves, wrapped in a fun, fantastical mystery.

Oliver is the type of kid who enjoys pulling the wings off flies just to hear the little "snap." Needless to say, he's more friendly with his television than with other kids. Oliver's life takes a turn, though, when his mom gets a new job and moves the family to a small town. Worse, his mom has fallen in love with a rundown old house near a pond. But there's something weird about the house. It seems to be guarded by creatures from the pond-creatures who decidedly don't want the family move in.