“Most everyone in Utah remembers 1896 as the year the territory became a state.”

From John D. Fitzgerald’s The Great Brain.

The Fitzgerald brothers lead a life that is never boring in large part all thanks to the middle brother, Tom, who is constantly seeking ways to make money or avoid unpleasant work. While youngest brother John often bears witness to Tom’s unbelievable schemes, older brother Sweyn tries to avoid taking even a small part in the happenings. When the Fitzgerald house gets a new indoor flush toilet, Tom realizes that he has been given an easy money making opportunity and charges his friends for the opportunity to first watch the plumber dig the hole and then to see the finished toilet flush. This brilliant–or Great Brain–moment sets Tom off on a mission to make money from anyone by any way he can. When Sweyn leaves for boarding school, the family dynamic changes quite a bit for the Fitzgerald household, but Tom still finds trouble everywhere including with his new, stern teacher Mr. Standish. In an attempt to get back at Standish, Tom sets off a scheme that is bigger and more serious than anything he’s ever tried before. However, when Tom’s uses his wits to help a friend for a profit, it will change Tom’s life forever.

This mischievous adventure is very similar in style to Gordon Korman and Mark Twain, featuring a often-troublesome main character that grows in a positive way through a series of chaotic events. While the historical setting and happenings might be a bit difficult for some readers to connect with, Fitzgerald still manages to create an unforgettable story. The Great Brain is a fun and engaging series opener that is sure to draw readers to the next book.