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The Benefits of Being an Octopus
Some people can do their homework. Some people get to have crushes on boys. Some people have other things they’ve got to do.
Seventh-grader Zoey has her hands full as she takes care of her much younger siblings after school every day while her mom works her shift at the pizza parlor. Not that her mom seems to appreciate it. At least there’s Lenny, her mom’s boyfriend—they all get to live in his nice, clean trailer.
At school, Zoey tries to stay under the radar. Her only friend Fuchsia has her own issues, and since they’re in an entirely different world than the rich kids, it’s best if no one notices them.
Zoey thinks how much easier everything would be if she were an octopus: eight arms to do eight things at once. Incredible camouflage ability and steady, unblinking vision. Powerful protective defenses.
Unfortunately, she’s not totally invisible, and one of her teachers forces her to join the debate club. Even though Zoey resists participating, debate ultimately leads her to see things in a new way: her mom’s relationship with Lenny, Fuchsia’s situation, and her own place in this town of people who think they’re better than her. Can Zoey find the courage to speak up, even if it means risking the most stable home she’s ever had?
This moving debut novel explores the cultural divides around class and the gun debate through the eyes of one girl, living on the edges of society, trying to find her way forward.
--annbradenbooks
Seventh-grader Zoey has her hands full as she takes care of her much younger siblings after school every day while her mom works her shift at the pizza parlor. Not that her mom seems to appreciate it. At least there’s Lenny, her mom’s boyfriend—they all get to live in his nice, clean trailer.
At school, Zoey tries to stay under the radar. Her only friend Fuchsia has her own issues, and since they’re in an entirely different world than the rich kids, it’s best if no one notices them.
Zoey thinks how much easier everything would be if she were an octopus: eight arms to do eight things at once. Incredible camouflage ability and steady, unblinking vision. Powerful protective defenses.
Unfortunately, she’s not totally invisible, and one of her teachers forces her to join the debate club. Even though Zoey resists participating, debate ultimately leads her to see things in a new way: her mom’s relationship with Lenny, Fuchsia’s situation, and her own place in this town of people who think they’re better than her. Can Zoey find the courage to speak up, even if it means risking the most stable home she’s ever had?
This moving debut novel explores the cultural divides around class and the gun debate through the eyes of one girl, living on the edges of society, trying to find her way forward.
--annbradenbooks
256 pages, Hardcover
First published September 4, 2018
About the author
Ann Braden
4 books324 followersAnn Braden writes books about kids learning to stand up for themselves even when it’s hard. Having earned widespread recognition, her debut middle grade novel, THE BENEFITS OF BEING AN OCTOPUS, was called one of “the essential middle school reads from the last decade” by Edutopia, and her next book, FLIGHT OF THE PUFFIN, sparked a coast-to-coast read aloud with tens of thousands of students taking part. Ann founded the Local Love Brigade, which sends love postcards to those who are facing hate. She also founded GunSenseVT, a grassroots group which helped pass landmark common ground gun violence prevention legislation. Previously a middle school teacher, Ann lives in southern Vermont with her husband, two kids, and two insatiable cats. Her next middle grade book, OPINIONS AND OPOSSUMS, will be published by Nancy Paulsen Books/Penguin Random House in May 2023.
Find out more on her website.
Find out more on her website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,437 reviews
September 9, 2023
"Because what's the point? Octopuses have three hearts, and all of mine have broken."
This story is told from the perspective of a girl, Zoey, whose life revolves around taking care of three other younger kids at home and trying to make things less difficult for her overworked mom while she neglects her school work and her needs.
Kids are mean and yes, bullies are inevitably everywhere.
There's one interesting child character, Silas, who remains quiet the entire day as a way of trying to avoid bullying.
There's another character Fushsia. She and Zoey became friends out of necessity and they have to stick with each other because no one wants to be friends with them.
Their fault? They come from poor families.
There's one teacher who's trying their best to make Zoey understand and try to make her see why her education, or more clearly, why it's important to know what she wanted to see herself as an adult. This is important I feel. Not asking who we wanted to become but instead how we wanted to see ourselves as adults.
The writing explores such issues and emotions from the younger characters exceptionally well.
The plot also deals with gun violence and how it affects everyone. The discussion is worth reading.
A broken family, a youngster struggling each day to have a normal day and finally having the confidence to live our own lives.
And Lenny, you hopeless adult, you can go to hell.
This story is told from the perspective of a girl, Zoey, whose life revolves around taking care of three other younger kids at home and trying to make things less difficult for her overworked mom while she neglects her school work and her needs.
Kids are mean and yes, bullies are inevitably everywhere.
There's one interesting child character, Silas, who remains quiet the entire day as a way of trying to avoid bullying.
There's another character Fushsia. She and Zoey became friends out of necessity and they have to stick with each other because no one wants to be friends with them.
Their fault? They come from poor families.
There's one teacher who's trying their best to make Zoey understand and try to make her see why her education, or more clearly, why it's important to know what she wanted to see herself as an adult. This is important I feel. Not asking who we wanted to become but instead how we wanted to see ourselves as adults.
The writing explores such issues and emotions from the younger characters exceptionally well.
The plot also deals with gun violence and how it affects everyone. The discussion is worth reading.
A broken family, a youngster struggling each day to have a normal day and finally having the confidence to live our own lives.
And Lenny, you hopeless adult, you can go to hell.
June 30, 2024
4.5 stars for The Benefits of Being an Octopus. This is a wonderfully written story about a young girl who has learned all too young that moral decisions aren't nearly as black and white as many people wish they would be.
We follow seventh-grader Zoey as she struggles to make it through each day. Beyond the usual teen woes of homework and fitting in, Zoey also has to deal with shouldering a lot of the parental duties in her family. She has three younger siblings (including an infant) she must care for after school, doing everything from feeding them to getting them ready for bed. With never enough food to go around and a precarious living situation, Zoey's got a lot to deal with.
When one of her teachers wants her to participate in debate club, Zoey attends, but she does her best to emulate her favourite animal, the octopus, by blending into the background. Eventually, Zoey realizes that she's got a lot to say about certain topics, and that her perspective is no less worthy than that of her classmates.
I'm deducting a half star for this book simply because there were a few scenes involving some pretty intense situations that didn't have me feeling on edge as much as I would expect. The suspense could have been built up a bit more for those parts.
For the most part, though, this book sucked me right in and I felt like I was there in the story beside Zoey as she was doing her best just to get it all done. I could feel her frustrations, despair, fatigue, and outrage. I admire the way author Ann Braden has deftly woven little details into the background that highlight how much more difficult life is when your living situation isn't secure.
I strongly recommend this book for just about anyone -- it would be a wonderful read to kick off a discussion about empathy and being able to understand other perspectives, even if you don't necessarily agree.
Badass Female Character score: 5/5 -- the messaging in this book is all about how to be a stronger person and sticking up for yourself. Zoey is pretty badass when you think about how well she manages her situation.
Thank you to Edelweiss+ and Sky Pony Press for providing me with a DRC of this book.
We follow seventh-grader Zoey as she struggles to make it through each day. Beyond the usual teen woes of homework and fitting in, Zoey also has to deal with shouldering a lot of the parental duties in her family. She has three younger siblings (including an infant) she must care for after school, doing everything from feeding them to getting them ready for bed. With never enough food to go around and a precarious living situation, Zoey's got a lot to deal with.
When one of her teachers wants her to participate in debate club, Zoey attends, but she does her best to emulate her favourite animal, the octopus, by blending into the background. Eventually, Zoey realizes that she's got a lot to say about certain topics, and that her perspective is no less worthy than that of her classmates.
I'm deducting a half star for this book simply because there were a few scenes involving some pretty intense situations that didn't have me feeling on edge as much as I would expect. The suspense could have been built up a bit more for those parts.
For the most part, though, this book sucked me right in and I felt like I was there in the story beside Zoey as she was doing her best just to get it all done. I could feel her frustrations, despair, fatigue, and outrage. I admire the way author Ann Braden has deftly woven little details into the background that highlight how much more difficult life is when your living situation isn't secure.
I strongly recommend this book for just about anyone -- it would be a wonderful read to kick off a discussion about empathy and being able to understand other perspectives, even if you don't necessarily agree.
Badass Female Character score: 5/5 -- the messaging in this book is all about how to be a stronger person and sticking up for yourself. Zoey is pretty badass when you think about how well she manages her situation.
Thank you to Edelweiss+ and Sky Pony Press for providing me with a DRC of this book.
November 5, 2018
'The Benefits of Being an Octopus' is Ann Braden's wonderful children's debut, that both taught and humbled me as an adult reader. The story is one of poverty, prejudice and the seemingly insurmountable odds that many families and children experience. It focuses on seventh grader (year eight in England and Wales) Zoey and her brave fight to overcome the odds that are stacked against her. Make no mistake, this is a powerful story with a beautiful message and an incredible heroine to boot!
A timeless and enduring tale that lets kids know they are not alone in their struggles. Unfortunately, poverty still persists, but what was once believed - that those born into poverty will remain in poverty - is no longer as black and white, although it is certainly now rearing its ugly head once more thanks to government cuts in both the UK and US. Of course, this ultimately leads back to the issue of capitalistic societies, but I don't wish to go into that in any great detail. The problem with capitalism is that it leads to a powerful and affluent few and an impoverished and oppressed many. Despite the riches some people have accumulated, most of which they will never need to live a comfortable life, there are many out there with barely two pennies to rub together.
This exquisitely written tale of overcoming overwhelming odds and thriving despite adversity will be enjoyed by kids and appreciated by adults. It looks at topical issues of class, poverty and the moral ambiguity of gun ownership, within the context and short duration of the story. Please don't make the mistake that this fantastic book is only for children and youngsters; I feel we adults could learn some important lessons here too. There should be more books like this but for each one, I am grateful, especially when they are as evocative and emotionally resonant as this one. We need to empower those living in difficult circumstances to escape the poverty trap, but a lot of other things need to change to make this possible. Braden's book will have a big impact on whoever decides to read it, and I for one look forward to reading her future work!
Many thanks to Sky Pony Press for an ARC. I was not required to post a review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
A timeless and enduring tale that lets kids know they are not alone in their struggles. Unfortunately, poverty still persists, but what was once believed - that those born into poverty will remain in poverty - is no longer as black and white, although it is certainly now rearing its ugly head once more thanks to government cuts in both the UK and US. Of course, this ultimately leads back to the issue of capitalistic societies, but I don't wish to go into that in any great detail. The problem with capitalism is that it leads to a powerful and affluent few and an impoverished and oppressed many. Despite the riches some people have accumulated, most of which they will never need to live a comfortable life, there are many out there with barely two pennies to rub together.
This exquisitely written tale of overcoming overwhelming odds and thriving despite adversity will be enjoyed by kids and appreciated by adults. It looks at topical issues of class, poverty and the moral ambiguity of gun ownership, within the context and short duration of the story. Please don't make the mistake that this fantastic book is only for children and youngsters; I feel we adults could learn some important lessons here too. There should be more books like this but for each one, I am grateful, especially when they are as evocative and emotionally resonant as this one. We need to empower those living in difficult circumstances to escape the poverty trap, but a lot of other things need to change to make this possible. Braden's book will have a big impact on whoever decides to read it, and I for one look forward to reading her future work!
Many thanks to Sky Pony Press for an ARC. I was not required to post a review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
July 2, 2018
I received an ARC of this book from Sky Pony Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
The review for this one is long due. Basically, I finished it about ten days ago and didn’t get the time to write a review.
I picked up The Benefits of Being an Octopus after I read Nina's interesting review. It is a simple book that deals with powerful themes. The central character, Zoey, a middle grader reveals about her struggles with poverty and domestic abuse. As the book unfolds, she learns how to speak for herself, and how to take a stand.
I don’t really read middle-grade books but this one was a good one, specifically, due to the light that it shed on emotional abuse and the implications of such matters on kids. The author did an excellent job on displaying Zoey’s concerns and struggles. I also like the way her shift from under-confidence to confidence was portrayed.
The book also brought the culture of bullying to the spotlight. But, considering the weight of all these critical themes, the novel is a light read. It doesn’t pressure you. It just works around putting Zoey’s struggles to the fore with a light touch on emotions.
Briefly, the book is a short and quick read. It focuses on important topics but not with a blinding intensity, which is, somewhat, good. Because, in that way, the matters come to the fore without disturbing the reader much. It’s a book that you can pick whenever you are looking for a substantial read but one that's not excruciatingly long.
The review for this one is long due. Basically, I finished it about ten days ago and didn’t get the time to write a review.
I picked up The Benefits of Being an Octopus after I read Nina's interesting review. It is a simple book that deals with powerful themes. The central character, Zoey, a middle grader reveals about her struggles with poverty and domestic abuse. As the book unfolds, she learns how to speak for herself, and how to take a stand.
I don’t really read middle-grade books but this one was a good one, specifically, due to the light that it shed on emotional abuse and the implications of such matters on kids. The author did an excellent job on displaying Zoey’s concerns and struggles. I also like the way her shift from under-confidence to confidence was portrayed.
The book also brought the culture of bullying to the spotlight. But, considering the weight of all these critical themes, the novel is a light read. It doesn’t pressure you. It just works around putting Zoey’s struggles to the fore with a light touch on emotions.
Briefly, the book is a short and quick read. It focuses on important topics but not with a blinding intensity, which is, somewhat, good. Because, in that way, the matters come to the fore without disturbing the reader much. It’s a book that you can pick whenever you are looking for a substantial read but one that's not excruciatingly long.
February 9, 2023
Zoey has her hands full just trying to get by, not to mention having to take care of her 3 younger siblings. The last thing she needs is to be forced into the debate club by her social studies teacher.
She is quiet and shy at school, an outcast that regularly gets picked on with only one friend. So she usually just tries to blend in and not be noticed.
Determined to not participate, Zoey goes to the debate club meetings that her teacher pushes on her reluctantly. But over time she learns much more important lessons than debate, lessons that will change the lives of her and her family forever.
Middle school +
She is quiet and shy at school, an outcast that regularly gets picked on with only one friend. So she usually just tries to blend in and not be noticed.
Determined to not participate, Zoey goes to the debate club meetings that her teacher pushes on her reluctantly. But over time she learns much more important lessons than debate, lessons that will change the lives of her and her family forever.
Middle school +
August 21, 2018
Check out more reviews @ Perspective of a Writer...
7th-grader Zoey has her hands full and thinks how much easier everything would be if she were an octopus: 8 arms to do 8 things at once. Incredible camouflage ability and steady, unblinking vision. Powerful protective defenses. Unfortunately, she’s not invisible, and a teacher forces her to join the debate club. Even though she resists participating, it leads her to see things in a new way… Explore the cultural divides around class and the gun debate.
The short review...
Frankly my dear... I freakin loved this book! If there were books like The Benefits of Being an Octopus when I was a middle grader I would have fallen in love with reading a lot, lot sooner. In fact, I didn't really see this as a middle grade book at all because it didn't really read like one. It totally had this YA vibe where I felt like I was really hearing Zoey's story from her perspective (I didn't feel like I was being talked down to!) I didn't feel like I had to make concessions in the plot because it was MG. BUT you know what... she doesn't whine at all, while still giving you the low down on her life which is far from perfect! Honestly even YA readers could read and enjoy the realistic portrayal of abuse, poverty and school life.
While there is some crushing going on I really, really liked that there was no romance (this should have clued me in to the MG label!) but that it totally centered on Zoey's life. That's a good thing as she had a TON going on and really doesn't have room for romance! This is very true to life and that is really what this book is all about... Touching on themes and events that are quite relatable and giving them a hard but loving look. I'll end with a quote because I really think that will do the trick as far as convincing you that you NEED to read this book...
"If I were an octopus, things would be so much easier. I'd have one arm to wipe Aurora's nose. Two more for holding both kids' hands when I pick them up from the Head Start bus stop to keep Bryce from wandering into the street after some rock he's spotted. One to hold Hector and his diaper bag on the afternoons when my mom works at the Pizza Pit. One to adjust my shirt because it doesn't really fit and it can get too revealing if I'm not paying attention, and I don't want to be "that girl." One so I could do my homework at least some of the time if I wanted. One to pick up Cheerios that are always on the floor. And the last one to swipe a can of Easy Cheese from the Cumberland Farms convenience store. Because little snowmen out of Easy Cheese are the most magical thing little kids have ever seen."
(BUT if it doesn't then read on for 7 reasons that The Benefits of Being an Octopus is a #mustread even if its middle grade!)
Cover & Title grade -> A+
The title, The Benefits of Being an Octopus, is certainly WHY I picked up the book. The title is killer and I wasn't disappointed in the least about the contents being about just that... The cover though is pretty neat as well. I think the best thing about it is how the figure representing Zoey really does look like a 7th grader. It gives you a hint that this is for middle grade readers, which I really appreciate! I also really loved how the octopus is her shadow... It's a simple design but effective and promotes what works so well in the story.
Why should ALL readers pick up The Benefits of Being an Octopus even though its middle grade?
-The octopus facts and symbolism!
I would quote every time octopus were mentioned except that would ruin the experience! You really need to read this, the connections of octopus to Zoey and how she deals with everything is quite delightful.
-The show of poverty!
The quite gives you a sense of what I'm talking about... Zoey isn't complaining... She doesn't want her siblings gone... she wants to be able to take care of them better! It's upbeat but realistic and will grab you by the throat...
-The mental health!
The abuse in this book and how its handled is so, so good... (I don't want to give spoilers, but) I really enjoyed Zoey's part in it all. From her initial perspective, to her realization and then to her brainstorming how to deal with the problem.
-How debate fit into the problem!
GAH!!! This aspect of the story is so spot on... The detail that Ann went into was perfect. And her teacher, Ms. Rochambeau, awwww I loved her so much. The debate part of the story was so good, I wanted even more, but Ann kept it really balanced with everything else.
-School life and peer pressure!
Peer pressure is real and even the outcasts and those on the edges give in to it because its better than being the one on the hot seat. I quite enjoyed how Zoey handled all this... and that it wasn't just some mean girl bullies that we've seen a bunch of times.
-Fuchsia and making friends!
Oh Fuchsia! I did not see all that coming with her friend and when you have things going on its quite easy to neglect friends... Zoey realizes this too in the course of the story. And she reaches out when she didn't need to... LOVE this!
-Her family and siblings!
I adored Aurora and Bryce and how Zoey saw her home life. I felt like this was one of the most realistic perspectives illustrated in the book, because it was positive, aware that life wasn't perfect, but also problematic in a realistic way.
As a Writer...
The Benefits of Being an Octopus is actually a book I would love to read a sequel from! This is almost unheard of from me (in fact, I don't think I've ever said this about a YA contemporary standalone!) but I really like Zoey and could definitely stick with her for another portion of her life as she deals with the changes that are just starting at the end of this novel.
Really I would not be surprised if this is really the memoir of some child out in the world that Ann Braden merely transcribed! (I'm sure its NOT that...) It's just that the narrative read so natural... This is the ultimate compliment from me... I just felt like I was with Zoey the entire time. I was experiencing what she was in the way that she would do things.
The Benefits of Being an Octopus is a real look inside of abuse and poverty and what it means to be a middle schooler trying to deal with that on top of school and friends. Ann Braden is a debut author that I will look forward to reading more from... She totally captured me with Zoey, the octopus girl whose courage is awe-inspiring! (It made it to my Best-of-2018 shelf for a reason...)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Authenticity
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Writing Style
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Plot & Pacing
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ World Building
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review. It has not influenced my opinions.
______________________
You can find this review and many others on my book blog @ Perspective of a Writer. See my special perspective at the bottom of my reviews under the typewriter...
October 29, 2018
Zoey doesn't have a chance to worry about the normal woes of seventh grade, like homework and crushes. She's too busy helping her family just scrape by, but with three other siblings, she'd have to be an octopus with eight tentacles to juggle every task. However, one of her teachers forces her to join the debate club and soon Zoey can't help but examine the different sides of the relationships around her.
Zoey is such a strong and complicated character to follow throughout this novel. When she finds herself facing a difficult situation, she reverts to the knowledge of her favorite animal, the octopus, and uses that information to develop defense mechanisms that she believes help move her forward. This works on multiple levels, particularly in that we get to learn some great octopus facts, but also in that it allows her to be a very introspective character for a large stretch. Her point of view on life is so clear from the first page and it propels all the action.
And what a point of view. It's great seeing middle grade fiction tackle economic diversity through a novel that so carefully describes one community's poverty. There are a lot of small details about this that keep the book feeling real. This is no more evident than when exploring emotional abuse with Zoey's mom and her boyfriend. These scenes are difficult to read, but they're written with such empathy and understanding of how this seventh grader would see it.
I really can't say enough great things about this book.
Ann Braden has written one of the strongest debut middle grade novels in a long, long time.
Note: I received an ARC copy of this through NetGalley.
Review also posted at https://pluckedfromthestacks.wordpres...
Zoey is such a strong and complicated character to follow throughout this novel. When she finds herself facing a difficult situation, she reverts to the knowledge of her favorite animal, the octopus, and uses that information to develop defense mechanisms that she believes help move her forward. This works on multiple levels, particularly in that we get to learn some great octopus facts, but also in that it allows her to be a very introspective character for a large stretch. Her point of view on life is so clear from the first page and it propels all the action.
And what a point of view. It's great seeing middle grade fiction tackle economic diversity through a novel that so carefully describes one community's poverty. There are a lot of small details about this that keep the book feeling real. This is no more evident than when exploring emotional abuse with Zoey's mom and her boyfriend. These scenes are difficult to read, but they're written with such empathy and understanding of how this seventh grader would see it.
I really can't say enough great things about this book.
Ann Braden has written one of the strongest debut middle grade novels in a long, long time.
Note: I received an ARC copy of this through NetGalley.
Review also posted at https://pluckedfromthestacks.wordpres...
July 12, 2018
As an educator I can’t even begin to explain to you the quiet importance that Ms. Rochambeau plays in this story. This will be a book that will not only be a very vital window for students to look in, but also a mirror to know they aren’t alone. Ann has touched on topics that I know for a fact students experience, or something similar, on a day in, day out basis, but are not quick to speak up. I feel as though all middle grade students and teachers need to read this book, and soon.
March 31, 2019
"Some people can do their homework. Some people get to have crushes on boys. Some people have other things they've got to do." (p.52)
"How is it possible to have no visible cage around you, but to be so trapped?" (p.208)
"How is it possible to have no visible cage around you, but to be so trapped?" (p.208)
October 31, 2022
This was a well written YA book. I absolutely loved the main character and her development throughout the book. It's such a sad thing she's living through due to her home life. I loved how the story built throughout but I feel like some of the parts could've had better build ups/suspense to keep the reader more gripped. I liked the ending though! Worthy read!
July 20, 2018
All I need is to know something—and I do. And maybe, just maybe, if I do this—and if I can rock it—all the other kids will have their minds blown, and it’ll be completely satisfying to watch. “Who would have guessed,” they’ll say, “that Zoey knew so much cool stuff? I had no idea! I thought I knew who she was, but clearly I didn’t at all.” Maybe Kaylee Vine would even stop holding her nose and switching seats on the bus to get away from me.
The Benefits of Being an Octopus is a treasure of a book — I absolutely loved it! If I could, I would give it six stars! At its core, it is an inspiring story about finding oneself and empowerment. It may be intended for teens and YA, but it will definitely resonate with adults. It’s an amazing debut novel and I cannot wait to read what Ann Braden writes next.
Zoey is a seventh grader who is working on her debate prep. The assigned topic — what is the best animal and why. For Zoey, the answer is the octopus and she knows many reasons why it surpasses all others. In fact, she is very knowledgeable about the eight-legged creature and even identifies with them at times.
Zoey is responsible for looking after her three younger siblings (ranging in age from infant to four years old) and it takes up a lot of her free time. She is not a great student and doesn’t really care about school. She never participates in class and as she explains, she isn’t the kind of kid that does homework.
Besides being unsuccessful at school, Zoey is bullied by her classmates. She doesn’t fit in and doesn’t seem to care. She also feels unappreciated by her mother, who she sees as having markedly changed since they moved in with her boyfriend Lenny. The reader cannot help but feel for Zoey and the challenging circumstances of her life. But one day her life, as well as those around her, will change when her social studies teacher becomes involved.
Likening herself to an octopus is a psychological coping mechanism for Zoey. She clearly suffers from an inferiority complex, among other things, and feeling that she shares some characteristics of an octopus helps guide her and gives her a perceived edge over her classmates. An added bonus for the reader is that we learn some interesting facts about the octopus.
The chromatophores right under my octopus skin switch to camouflage. When I slide into the seat, I might as well be made of the same colors as the desk and the metal chair legs.
It’s like my octopus body has gotten trapped in a net. But there has to be an opening somewhere. If I can just stay calm and avoid getting tangled up …
In fact, identifying with the eight-legged mollusk gives Zoey a sense of confidence, hope and courage when she most needs it. She is able to deal with stressful situations by imagining the advantages she has as an octopus.
I can camouflage myself well enough to blend in with a desk. I just need to camouflage myself enough to blend in with them. I take a deep breath and extend my tentacles.
I can still blend in with the eager beavers. I can still pretend I’m like them. Maybe after long enough, that magic wand of confidence will mistake me for them, and give me a bop on the head, too.
Could I really be like them? I mean, an octopus can change colors ten times in a matter of seconds, so all sorts of ridiculous things are possible.
Ann Braden does a remarkable job capturing the voice and temperament of a seventh grader.
I hate waking them up. It’s like you’ve finally won the lottery of peace and quiet and then you rip that winning ticket to shreds and dump a bucket of angry, screaming monkeys on your head.
Silas has the kind of freckles that make you want to connect the dots to form constellations and dragons and things.
I slip into the stall that has you’re a slut carved on the side. I used to like to look at it sideways and pretend that it says you’re a slug and that it was carved by a cockroach who was just trying to help his slug friend who was having some identity issues.
The Benefits of Being an Octopus explores many important and relevant topics - bullying, living day-to-day with poverty, emotional abuse, the gun debate and finding one’s voice (both literally and figuratively). Importantly, it shows how one person can make such a significant difference in a child’s life and its direction, in this case a teacher who cares.
Thank you to Skyhorse Publishing/Sky Pony Press and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
The Benefits of Being an Octopus is a treasure of a book — I absolutely loved it! If I could, I would give it six stars! At its core, it is an inspiring story about finding oneself and empowerment. It may be intended for teens and YA, but it will definitely resonate with adults. It’s an amazing debut novel and I cannot wait to read what Ann Braden writes next.
Zoey is a seventh grader who is working on her debate prep. The assigned topic — what is the best animal and why. For Zoey, the answer is the octopus and she knows many reasons why it surpasses all others. In fact, she is very knowledgeable about the eight-legged creature and even identifies with them at times.
Zoey is responsible for looking after her three younger siblings (ranging in age from infant to four years old) and it takes up a lot of her free time. She is not a great student and doesn’t really care about school. She never participates in class and as she explains, she isn’t the kind of kid that does homework.
Besides being unsuccessful at school, Zoey is bullied by her classmates. She doesn’t fit in and doesn’t seem to care. She also feels unappreciated by her mother, who she sees as having markedly changed since they moved in with her boyfriend Lenny. The reader cannot help but feel for Zoey and the challenging circumstances of her life. But one day her life, as well as those around her, will change when her social studies teacher becomes involved.
Likening herself to an octopus is a psychological coping mechanism for Zoey. She clearly suffers from an inferiority complex, among other things, and feeling that she shares some characteristics of an octopus helps guide her and gives her a perceived edge over her classmates. An added bonus for the reader is that we learn some interesting facts about the octopus.
The chromatophores right under my octopus skin switch to camouflage. When I slide into the seat, I might as well be made of the same colors as the desk and the metal chair legs.
It’s like my octopus body has gotten trapped in a net. But there has to be an opening somewhere. If I can just stay calm and avoid getting tangled up …
In fact, identifying with the eight-legged mollusk gives Zoey a sense of confidence, hope and courage when she most needs it. She is able to deal with stressful situations by imagining the advantages she has as an octopus.
I can camouflage myself well enough to blend in with a desk. I just need to camouflage myself enough to blend in with them. I take a deep breath and extend my tentacles.
I can still blend in with the eager beavers. I can still pretend I’m like them. Maybe after long enough, that magic wand of confidence will mistake me for them, and give me a bop on the head, too.
Could I really be like them? I mean, an octopus can change colors ten times in a matter of seconds, so all sorts of ridiculous things are possible.
Ann Braden does a remarkable job capturing the voice and temperament of a seventh grader.
I hate waking them up. It’s like you’ve finally won the lottery of peace and quiet and then you rip that winning ticket to shreds and dump a bucket of angry, screaming monkeys on your head.
Silas has the kind of freckles that make you want to connect the dots to form constellations and dragons and things.
I slip into the stall that has you’re a slut carved on the side. I used to like to look at it sideways and pretend that it says you’re a slug and that it was carved by a cockroach who was just trying to help his slug friend who was having some identity issues.
The Benefits of Being an Octopus explores many important and relevant topics - bullying, living day-to-day with poverty, emotional abuse, the gun debate and finding one’s voice (both literally and figuratively). Importantly, it shows how one person can make such a significant difference in a child’s life and its direction, in this case a teacher who cares.
Thank you to Skyhorse Publishing/Sky Pony Press and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
June 10, 2018
It's been a long time since I dived into a Middle Grade contemporary novel, and I was a bit hesitant about going into The Benefits of Being an Octopus. I needn't have worried, though, because I took a liking to this book from the very first page – based on a quote.
Ann Braden tells a story of socioeconomic struggles, courage, and the importance to speak up and stand your ground. The Benefits of Being an Octopus will be a source of hope for many young readers living on the edge of society (which underpins the requirement of libraries, obviously!). I would like to specifically point out the role of the octopus in this book.
The octopus serves a triple purpose in this story: It is 1) a symbol of the human ability to adapt and evolve in difficult situations, especially children and adolescents, which represents a core theme in this book, 2) a visualisation of how young ones, who are forced into parental roles for their siblings due to their parents trying to make the rent, juggle several things (household, schoolwork, friendships, first love) at once, and 3) an image the main character uses to summon strength because the octopus can both camouflage and reach for several things at once. I really liked how Ann Braden instrumentalised this fascinating animal in the book to address issues of socioenomic status, parentification (the role reversal of parent and child), and domestic abuse. She skillfully highlights how students from low-income families can be at a disadvantage, for example when homework requires certain materials at home which Zoey explains she does not have. She also addresses prejudice and misunderstandings between friends. I enjoyed the friendship between Zoey and Fuchsia, which demonstrated how important it is to pay attention to your social environment and how much strength can be gained in having loyal friends. With Zoey joining the debate club at school, Ann Braden kickstarts her character growth – standing up to fellow students, standing up to friends, and standing up to her mother's abusive boyfriend.
MG literature is, more than any other genre, meant to teach as much as entertain. The Benefits of Being an Octopus accomplished this goal by showing the reader how domestic abuse does not necessarily require physical violence, but that verbal and emotional abuse can also be harrowing. The book also encourages young readers to take matters into their own hands, especially their future, and to be attentive towards others.
"The history of the octopus illustrates the brain's ability to evolve. As they lost their ancestors' protective shells they were forced to become more intelligent." – The Octopus: Graceful Cephalopod of the Deep by Derby King
Ann Braden tells a story of socioeconomic struggles, courage, and the importance to speak up and stand your ground. The Benefits of Being an Octopus will be a source of hope for many young readers living on the edge of society (which underpins the requirement of libraries, obviously!). I would like to specifically point out the role of the octopus in this book.
The octopus serves a triple purpose in this story: It is 1) a symbol of the human ability to adapt and evolve in difficult situations, especially children and adolescents, which represents a core theme in this book, 2) a visualisation of how young ones, who are forced into parental roles for their siblings due to their parents trying to make the rent, juggle several things (household, schoolwork, friendships, first love) at once, and 3) an image the main character uses to summon strength because the octopus can both camouflage and reach for several things at once. I really liked how Ann Braden instrumentalised this fascinating animal in the book to address issues of socioenomic status, parentification (the role reversal of parent and child), and domestic abuse. She skillfully highlights how students from low-income families can be at a disadvantage, for example when homework requires certain materials at home which Zoey explains she does not have. She also addresses prejudice and misunderstandings between friends. I enjoyed the friendship between Zoey and Fuchsia, which demonstrated how important it is to pay attention to your social environment and how much strength can be gained in having loyal friends. With Zoey joining the debate club at school, Ann Braden kickstarts her character growth – standing up to fellow students, standing up to friends, and standing up to her mother's abusive boyfriend.
MG literature is, more than any other genre, meant to teach as much as entertain. The Benefits of Being an Octopus accomplished this goal by showing the reader how domestic abuse does not necessarily require physical violence, but that verbal and emotional abuse can also be harrowing. The book also encourages young readers to take matters into their own hands, especially their future, and to be attentive towards others.
July 6, 2018
I got sent this book in exchange for a honest review, all my opinions are my own and thank you so much to the publishers for sending me this book!
So in this book we follow Zoey who we follow through the novel as she faces different challenges and subjects like racism and gun safety and overall just her being able to fit in.
I was very bland with my summarising but it's hard not to give too much away.
Some parts of this book worked for me and some didn't, I just didn't feel emotionally attached to the story. I think it's maybe cause Zoey is still young and that age you don't understand everything.
Anyway this comes out in September so if you wanna see what it's about just go for it.
So in this book we follow Zoey who we follow through the novel as she faces different challenges and subjects like racism and gun safety and overall just her being able to fit in.
I was very bland with my summarising but it's hard not to give too much away.
Some parts of this book worked for me and some didn't, I just didn't feel emotionally attached to the story. I think it's maybe cause Zoey is still young and that age you don't understand everything.
Anyway this comes out in September so if you wanna see what it's about just go for it.
June 8, 2023
It really hurts me to say it but this was actually 1 for me. I just can not give it 1 because l feel some really noble intentions behind all of it but....... Writing was dry and unconvincing. Not even for one single second l felt any of this is real. I am usually very emotional person and it takes very little from me to connect especially in story about mother and children as mum myself. But l could not connect l could not believe anything of this story. Main character seemed like 40 year old woman not 13 year It really didn't work at all for me. And l am actually sad it didn't. But it is as it is.
October 19, 2019
Zoey is a lovable little weirdo trying to survive being a teenager, an older sister, a friend, and an outsider.
This was a fantastic coming of age story with a delightfully quirky main character.
There were a few unanswered questions for me at the end, but not enough to deter me from recommending this to everyone.
Some heavy bits, some funny bits and some weird bits.
Give it a read, I think you'll like it!
Much love to NetGalley and Skyhorse Publishing for allowing me early access to this book.
This was a fantastic coming of age story with a delightfully quirky main character.
There were a few unanswered questions for me at the end, but not enough to deter me from recommending this to everyone.
Some heavy bits, some funny bits and some weird bits.
Give it a read, I think you'll like it!
Much love to NetGalley and Skyhorse Publishing for allowing me early access to this book.
December 7, 2018
I had a visceral reaction to the ending scenes of this book. I literally could not breathe. I don't think I've ever had that kind of response before. Wow. Needless to say, Ann Braden's writing has blown me away. My favorite line: "I think that sometimes you need to have your back up against the wall to find out what you're made of. And you just haven't had that happen to you yet."
I would strongly suggest this for the RI middle school book award list.
I would strongly suggest this for the RI middle school book award list.
May 29, 2018
Wow, what a powerful book for teenagers and about teenagers. If I could I would give this so much more than just 5 stars. It has the quality of an award-winning short story and a pace of a thriller. Spot-on in every aspect.
It isn't often when an adult writer actually manages to write for young readers in a way that both appeals and is also very insightful. This book made me laugh and cry tears as big as kidney beans. There were so many broken strings inside Zoey and myself...memories of my own childhood kept creeping up like those eight tentacles constantly mentioned or hinted at.
It's like Zoey says at the beginning:
If I were an octopus, things would be so much easier. I'd have one arm to wipe Aurora's nose. Two more for holding both kids' hands when I pick them up from the Head Start bus stop to keep Bryce from wandering into the street after some rock he's spotted. One to hold Hector and his diaper bag on the afternoons when my mom works at the Pizza Pit. One to adjust my shirt because it doesn't really fit and it can get too revealing if I'm not paying attention, and I don't want to be "that girl." One so I could do my homework at least some of the time if I wanted. One to pick up the Cheerios that are always on the floor. And the last to swipe a can of Easy Cheese from the Cumberland Farms convenience store.
And all this coming from a 7-grader's head...
OK, my life wasn't this bad in 7th grade exactly. More like after I graduated high school and single-handedly moved to New York, leaving my family, my language and everything else I knew about the world (mostly because it was all bad and hopeless) behind. THEN my life took on a spin much like Zoey's, so I can totally associate.
This book is a fantastic portrait of what a teenage girl goes through internally and externally. I would HIGHLY recommend it, firstly, to parents of teenagers, and of course to all the curious young readers as well.
I can't imagine a reader who wouldn't fall in love with someone like Zoey.
Big thank you to Sky Pony Press and NetGalley for the chance to read this amazing journey. This review is my honest opinion.
It isn't often when an adult writer actually manages to write for young readers in a way that both appeals and is also very insightful. This book made me laugh and cry tears as big as kidney beans. There were so many broken strings inside Zoey and myself...memories of my own childhood kept creeping up like those eight tentacles constantly mentioned or hinted at.
It's like Zoey says at the beginning:
If I were an octopus, things would be so much easier. I'd have one arm to wipe Aurora's nose. Two more for holding both kids' hands when I pick them up from the Head Start bus stop to keep Bryce from wandering into the street after some rock he's spotted. One to hold Hector and his diaper bag on the afternoons when my mom works at the Pizza Pit. One to adjust my shirt because it doesn't really fit and it can get too revealing if I'm not paying attention, and I don't want to be "that girl." One so I could do my homework at least some of the time if I wanted. One to pick up the Cheerios that are always on the floor. And the last to swipe a can of Easy Cheese from the Cumberland Farms convenience store.
And all this coming from a 7-grader's head...
OK, my life wasn't this bad in 7th grade exactly. More like after I graduated high school and single-handedly moved to New York, leaving my family, my language and everything else I knew about the world (mostly because it was all bad and hopeless) behind. THEN my life took on a spin much like Zoey's, so I can totally associate.
This book is a fantastic portrait of what a teenage girl goes through internally and externally. I would HIGHLY recommend it, firstly, to parents of teenagers, and of course to all the curious young readers as well.
I can't imagine a reader who wouldn't fall in love with someone like Zoey.
Big thank you to Sky Pony Press and NetGalley for the chance to read this amazing journey. This review is my honest opinion.
February 11, 2019
Zoey is a tween, living in a trailer that belongs to her mother's boyfriend, attending school but doing very little work, caring for her young siblings while Zoey's mother and the boyfriend work their low-end jobs. It's an impossible life for all of them, but the trailer and the reliable transportation the boyfriend offers have lifted the small family marginally up, and Zoey's mom struggles to pacify her boyfriend so that the family has a clean place to live and food to eat. Zoey can do little but watch the relationship between her mom and her mom's boyfriend deteriorate as Zoey's mom becomes smaller and smaller to appease her boyfriend.
And then a teacher reaches out to Zoey, and Zoey gradually learns a new way to deal with problems.
POSSIBLE SPOILERS
Slowly, Zoey and her mom begin to take action. The reader is left in the end with the hope that things will get better, but nothing is certain.
I know literally hundreds of students in my town and others across America who would benefit from reading this book, from seeing their lives, possibly for the first time, in a story. It isn't often that I read books with children of poverty as the main characters, and I thank the author for taking on this subject. I also thank the author for not tacking on a happily-ever-after ending; that certainly never seems to happen in real life.
And then a teacher reaches out to Zoey, and Zoey gradually learns a new way to deal with problems.
POSSIBLE SPOILERS
Slowly, Zoey and her mom begin to take action. The reader is left in the end with the hope that things will get better, but nothing is certain.
I know literally hundreds of students in my town and others across America who would benefit from reading this book, from seeing their lives, possibly for the first time, in a story. It isn't often that I read books with children of poverty as the main characters, and I thank the author for taking on this subject. I also thank the author for not tacking on a happily-ever-after ending; that certainly never seems to happen in real life.
December 5, 2018
The benefits of reading this book are a least as many as the legs on an octopus. 1) You learn more about octopuses (including the proper way to refer to them in plural). Our protagonist (Zoey) refers often to her desires to do this or that as an octopus would adding an intriguing narrative to the story. 2) Middle graders living in poverty will be able to see themselves in a book. 3) Zoey learns about the world of debate and uses the skills she sees in others to analyze and make changes in her life. 4) A teacher reaches out to bridge a gap and make a difference. 5) Middle graders learn about how to identify an abusive situation and where to turn for help. 6) Zoey is a model for nurturing younger siblings. 7) Problem-solving is clearly demonstrated. 8) The gun issue is presented from both sides and reminds middle graders that when you add real people into the mix it is more complicated and not just a black and white issue. Highly recommended for 5th grade and up!
December 30, 2018
One of the best children's books of 2018.
November 21, 2018
There are good books and there are bad ones. “The Benefits of Being an Octopus” is somewhere in the middle. I have not felt for characters or a plot, they seemed too simple for me. But I liked the background of a story – poor Americans living in the trailers.
For foreigners America is a dream country. A place, where you can come and begin a happy life without poorness. And even if poverty exists – it’s only for immigrants, who don’t want to work hard, or so we’ve been told by stereotypes. But this Ann Braden’s book show us that Americans can be poor too. It was unusual to read about life in trailers and how many violence still exists in such lives.
This review won’t be long, just because I didn’t get a lot of emotions reading “The Benefits of Being an Octopus”. I got more pleasure looking at this wonderful cover, than reading the book. Even the main character was not the one to like or dislike. She was just okay or maybe even a little boring? The thing with her imagining herself as octopus was interesting, but didn’t fit in the book as good as I hoped for. Sometimes it was annoying.
Maybe this book needs to be like this – a simple story, a little boring, as our everyday lives can be. That’s why I am so apathetic to this book. Or maybe I read it in a wrong time and that’s the reason I didn’t get much pleasure from reading “The Benefits of Being an Octopus”. Anyway, I hope that’s just me, not a book.
For foreigners America is a dream country. A place, where you can come and begin a happy life without poorness. And even if poverty exists – it’s only for immigrants, who don’t want to work hard, or so we’ve been told by stereotypes. But this Ann Braden’s book show us that Americans can be poor too. It was unusual to read about life in trailers and how many violence still exists in such lives.
This review won’t be long, just because I didn’t get a lot of emotions reading “The Benefits of Being an Octopus”. I got more pleasure looking at this wonderful cover, than reading the book. Even the main character was not the one to like or dislike. She was just okay or maybe even a little boring? The thing with her imagining herself as octopus was interesting, but didn’t fit in the book as good as I hoped for. Sometimes it was annoying.
Maybe this book needs to be like this – a simple story, a little boring, as our everyday lives can be. That’s why I am so apathetic to this book. Or maybe I read it in a wrong time and that’s the reason I didn’t get much pleasure from reading “The Benefits of Being an Octopus”. Anyway, I hope that’s just me, not a book.
April 27, 2020
I received an ARC of this book from Sky Pony Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
This book was incredible. I’m surprised that this was Ann Braden’s debut novel and a middle-grade!
”That’s one of the things about the people on that beautiful tropical island: they can’t see who’s floating about in the ocean around them. Or maybe they can and they just choose not to look. I don’t know. I’ve never been there.”
We followed Zoey in this story, a 7th grader with many unfortunate circumstances. She lives in her mums boyfriends trailer where she shares a room with her two younger siblings. She lives in poverty and each day works through the possibility of the power being turned off or having very little food to provide a meal for her family. Not only does Zoey struggle at home - sometimes she struggles to finish her homework on time due to looking after her siblings and helping her mum - she also has issues at school.
The kids at school don’t understand her - they label and bully her and others like her or completely ignore her. They don’t see the bigger picture other than the ‘tropical island’ they live on, they don’t have to worry about the things Zoey does.
Everything changes when Zoey finally finds her voice in debate club after hiding away behind the idea of a camouflaging octopus. It seems up to this point that being an octopus would help her - hiding away, having multiple arms to juggle her siblings and slinking through sticky situations.
This was such a good read for readers of varying ages - it tackles many situations that are becoming increasingly abundant in society. An important read for tackling hard situations and speaking out against wrong doings and written in a beautiful way.
This book was incredible. I’m surprised that this was Ann Braden’s debut novel and a middle-grade!
”That’s one of the things about the people on that beautiful tropical island: they can’t see who’s floating about in the ocean around them. Or maybe they can and they just choose not to look. I don’t know. I’ve never been there.”
We followed Zoey in this story, a 7th grader with many unfortunate circumstances. She lives in her mums boyfriends trailer where she shares a room with her two younger siblings. She lives in poverty and each day works through the possibility of the power being turned off or having very little food to provide a meal for her family. Not only does Zoey struggle at home - sometimes she struggles to finish her homework on time due to looking after her siblings and helping her mum - she also has issues at school.
The kids at school don’t understand her - they label and bully her and others like her or completely ignore her. They don’t see the bigger picture other than the ‘tropical island’ they live on, they don’t have to worry about the things Zoey does.
Everything changes when Zoey finally finds her voice in debate club after hiding away behind the idea of a camouflaging octopus. It seems up to this point that being an octopus would help her - hiding away, having multiple arms to juggle her siblings and slinking through sticky situations.
This was such a good read for readers of varying ages - it tackles many situations that are becoming increasingly abundant in society. An important read for tackling hard situations and speaking out against wrong doings and written in a beautiful way.
December 5, 2019
If you like guns and children hunting this book might be for you.
While THE BENEFITS OF BEING AN OCTOPUS takes an important look at poverty and non-physical domestic violence, it’s not so,subtle pro-gun and pro-children hunting message permeates even louder.
When I was in 7th grade, we debated nuclear proliferation and euthanasia. Ann Braden has these students debating the best animal, which is something I’d expect from third graders. Then she pivots toward gun rights, making those who worry about school shooting seem fanatical.
I can’t in good conscience recommend THE BENEFITS OF BEING AN OCTOPUS, despite the positive aspects of the book.
While THE BENEFITS OF BEING AN OCTOPUS takes an important look at poverty and non-physical domestic violence, it’s not so,subtle pro-gun and pro-children hunting message permeates even louder.
When I was in 7th grade, we debated nuclear proliferation and euthanasia. Ann Braden has these students debating the best animal, which is something I’d expect from third graders. Then she pivots toward gun rights, making those who worry about school shooting seem fanatical.
I can’t in good conscience recommend THE BENEFITS OF BEING AN OCTOPUS, despite the positive aspects of the book.
September 25, 2018
4.5 on the blog.
I loved this book and what it had to say and show. There is a big misconception out there that most poor people are lazy and don't work, or don't work hard enough. This story shows how people get caught up in the circle of just getting by which pivots on greedy people with the means to buy property charging too much for rentals that are barely livable and people who have to live in them because they don't get paid a livable wage for doing hard work other people stick their noses up at; like emptying the soiled diaper bins at the nursing home and cleaning them out. Doing that every day, but never having any extra money, so you have to wear worn out clothes and you can't pay for dentist so your teeth go bad and that pretty much kills your chances to get a better job. I hope everyone reads this book, regardless of age, because most Haves dont seem to get what most Have-Nots go through to survive, and how substandard living conditions and scraping by affect how people act and react with one another.
The story also shows how just one adult understanding and believing in a child can change the trajectory of that child's life; and how when women come together to help each other out and lift each other up, instead of seeing each other as rivals, they can lay a foundation to build a better life for themselves and their children. Wonderful messages to be giving in a Middle Grade book.
I myself see this more as Young Adult. It's written the way YA (teen) books used to be written before all the YA publishing money-wheel spinning started. The characters are in seventh grade. It's nice to see a book written about teens still being appropriate, content wise, for most of the 7-11 readership.
The one star subtraction comes from the head-scratching inclusion of a thread about hunting bobcats. At one point I thought it was going to lead to the subject of some people using hunting as a way to put food on the table, but that was never discussed. Then I thought it was going to be a twist and have them find a bobcat, after spending months tracking them, and shoot it with a camera instead of a gun, to say if you are hunting for "sport" and the thrill of the hunt why not a framed photo instead of a stuffed dead trophy. However, a conversation about whether or not they were in season came into play. There were too many confusing inclusions about gun ownership, and frankly the whole gun ownership question wasn't needed in this story. A debate subject about universal healthcare, or a living wage, would have fit in better for making the final debate point.
I was approved for an eARC, via Netgalley, in return for an honest review.
I loved this book and what it had to say and show. There is a big misconception out there that most poor people are lazy and don't work, or don't work hard enough. This story shows how people get caught up in the circle of just getting by which pivots on greedy people with the means to buy property charging too much for rentals that are barely livable and people who have to live in them because they don't get paid a livable wage for doing hard work other people stick their noses up at; like emptying the soiled diaper bins at the nursing home and cleaning them out. Doing that every day, but never having any extra money, so you have to wear worn out clothes and you can't pay for dentist so your teeth go bad and that pretty much kills your chances to get a better job. I hope everyone reads this book, regardless of age, because most Haves dont seem to get what most Have-Nots go through to survive, and how substandard living conditions and scraping by affect how people act and react with one another.
The story also shows how just one adult understanding and believing in a child can change the trajectory of that child's life; and how when women come together to help each other out and lift each other up, instead of seeing each other as rivals, they can lay a foundation to build a better life for themselves and their children. Wonderful messages to be giving in a Middle Grade book.
I myself see this more as Young Adult. It's written the way YA (teen) books used to be written before all the YA publishing money-wheel spinning started. The characters are in seventh grade. It's nice to see a book written about teens still being appropriate, content wise, for most of the 7-11 readership.
The one star subtraction comes from the head-scratching inclusion of a thread about hunting bobcats. At one point I thought it was going to lead to the subject of some people using hunting as a way to put food on the table, but that was never discussed. Then I thought it was going to be a twist and have them find a bobcat, after spending months tracking them, and shoot it with a camera instead of a gun, to say if you are hunting for "sport" and the thrill of the hunt why not a framed photo instead of a stuffed dead trophy. However, a conversation about whether or not they were in season came into play. There were too many confusing inclusions about gun ownership, and frankly the whole gun ownership question wasn't needed in this story. A debate subject about universal healthcare, or a living wage, would have fit in better for making the final debate point.
I was approved for an eARC, via Netgalley, in return for an honest review.
August 28, 2023
*Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free e-copy in exchange for an honest review.*
Actual Rating: 3.75
I was immediately drawn to this book because of the cover. It's simple, yet colorful and aesthetic, and it fits the vibe of the story very well!
The Benefits of Being an Octopus follows Zoey, a seventh grader who doesn't have time to deal with crushes or even homework. She's too busy taking care of her younger siblings while her family barely scrapes by. But one of her teachers forces her to join the debate club, and Zoey can't stop thinking how much easier life would be if she was an octopus with eight arms and the ability camouflage. Surprisingly, joining the debate club helps Zoey see things in a different light and with everything going on at home, at school, and with Zoey's best friend Fuchsia, that's exactly what she needs.
This was quite a quick read and the writing style was very engaging. The narration was authentic and it really sounded like everything was from a seventh grader's perspective. Although I understand that the age factored in, I personally still felt a little frustrated at the simple terms the narrator thought in, even towards the end.
Another frustration factor was regarding character development. It was definitely there, but it didn't quite pick-up until the 70% mark, and waiting for it was quite a task. I think the author captured the binary thinking of younger students very well; in fact, I really loved how I could truly empathize with the main character, even though I may disagree with them. This book really made me look at people beyond their arguments, and it points out that what's frustrating about politics aren't the people on the other side, it's close-mindedness by anyone and often, everyone.
Regarding the rest of the characters, I'm not sure I felt as much love for them as I could have. I think that some of them could have been fleshed out more and I'm not 100% satisfied with how much backstory I got. Fuchsia was a character that could have used more screentime and personality before she became a plot device.
The plot was very interesting overall, though I did feel like it got a little messy. The book bounced between subplots, and I think the resolution tying them together was a little weak, and I'm not sure how satisfied I am.
Overall, I'd still recommend this book to everyone, and I think even adults could learn a lot from this book, which really makes the reader take a step back and look at both sides of every coin.
Actual Rating: 3.75
I was immediately drawn to this book because of the cover. It's simple, yet colorful and aesthetic, and it fits the vibe of the story very well!
The Benefits of Being an Octopus follows Zoey, a seventh grader who doesn't have time to deal with crushes or even homework. She's too busy taking care of her younger siblings while her family barely scrapes by. But one of her teachers forces her to join the debate club, and Zoey can't stop thinking how much easier life would be if she was an octopus with eight arms and the ability camouflage. Surprisingly, joining the debate club helps Zoey see things in a different light and with everything going on at home, at school, and with Zoey's best friend Fuchsia, that's exactly what she needs.
This was quite a quick read and the writing style was very engaging. The narration was authentic and it really sounded like everything was from a seventh grader's perspective. Although I understand that the age factored in, I personally still felt a little frustrated at the simple terms the narrator thought in, even towards the end.
Another frustration factor was regarding character development. It was definitely there, but it didn't quite pick-up until the 70% mark, and waiting for it was quite a task. I think the author captured the binary thinking of younger students very well; in fact, I really loved how I could truly empathize with the main character, even though I may disagree with them. This book really made me look at people beyond their arguments, and it points out that what's frustrating about politics aren't the people on the other side, it's close-mindedness by anyone and often, everyone.
Regarding the rest of the characters, I'm not sure I felt as much love for them as I could have. I think that some of them could have been fleshed out more and I'm not 100% satisfied with how much backstory I got. Fuchsia was a character that could have used more screentime and personality before she became a plot device.
The plot was very interesting overall, though I did feel like it got a little messy. The book bounced between subplots, and I think the resolution tying them together was a little weak, and I'm not sure how satisfied I am.
Overall, I'd still recommend this book to everyone, and I think even adults could learn a lot from this book, which really makes the reader take a step back and look at both sides of every coin.
September 4, 2018
Meet Zoey, a seventh-grader who somehow juggles her school activities, being responsible for her three younger siblings, and worrying over her mother’s slowly diminished confidence. If only she could be an octopus with eight arms, ink as a defense, and the ability to camouflage herself in awkward situations. One day Zoey discovers exactly why her mother has shrunk beyond recognition and, in utter frustration, she finds a brave and powerful voice both at home and at school. We witness far more than a comfy story — we’re offered a glimpse into the desperation a single parent can experience as they attempt to find a suitable home for their children. What might appear as negligence to one person is sometimes a best case scenario for another. Over time we see that it really takes a village to raise a child AND that we can overcome even the worst of issues when we listen to one another and work together. What a gift to peek through this emotional window and experience a new level of empathy. I’m pleased to know this book will also be a mirror for those who need relatable characters–powerful characters who discover they don’t need a lot of money to make a difference in the lives of others. This is a much-needed title in any middle grade collection. I'm grateful to Sky Pony Press and Netgalley for providing me with an advanced reading copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
September 12, 2018
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This in no way effects my overall rating of this book.
This book broke my heart into a million pieces. It’s rare when I’m completely engulfed in a book and feel so much for the characters and what they’re going through. But I felt for these characters so much. I felt their desperation and their struggles and every raw emotion they experienced.
The book follows our protagonist Zoey. She lives in a small trailer with her three younger siblings, her mother, her mother’s boyfriend that provides for them, and his friend that often stays there. Zoey has social anxiety (though it’s not explicitly stated in the text) and is always teased and bullied in school for her appearance and ‘stink’ since she lives in a trailer park and her family barely has any money to get food on the table.
At the beginning of the novel, Zoey is in a state of mind where she misses her old mom that used to smile and be fun and be a mom. She isn’t sure where she fits in, and she is always letting others talk about her in bad ways. She has absolutely no self-confidence and is scared of others.
“An octopus might start out defenseless, but it sure doesn’t stay that way.”
She grows exponentially by the end of the novel. I loved reading about how she became stronger and started standing up for herself, the things she believes in, and others she cares about. Zoey might be one of the younger protagonists I’ve read about – 14 or 15 years old – but she was definitely up there as one of the smartest and strongest I’ve ever read.
As a character, Zoey is wonderful. She’s flawed and made decisions that had me frustrated but they were realistic. She joined the debate club at her school but she isn’t confident enough to stand up and talk so she would skip or run out of class. This was annoying but realistic.
I also loved that even though she grew a lot and became more outspoken by the end of the book, her personality and the way she acted didn’t change. She was still the same person, but stronger and more resilient.
Family was such a large focus of the book, as Zoey spends most of her time outside of school taking care of her younger siblings. Her mom is either at work, cooking dinner and running errands for her boyfriend Lenny, or sleeping so Zoey becomes the main caretaker for her younger sister and brothers. Their family might not be perfect, but they stick together against all odds which is what’s most important.
This book might be classified as middle grade but it read almost like a young adult due to the serious topics that are discussed such as domestic abuse and gun control. I think that these topics were handled very well by the author and written wonderfully given the intended age group of the readers and the age of the protagonist.
Overall this was a wonderful book that I read super quick. Whenever I picked up the book and started reading, I didn’t want to put it down. I recommend this to anyone looking for a book with heart, lovable (and hate-able) characters, and important topics.
**TW: domestic abuse, gun violence, bullying**
This book broke my heart into a million pieces. It’s rare when I’m completely engulfed in a book and feel so much for the characters and what they’re going through. But I felt for these characters so much. I felt their desperation and their struggles and every raw emotion they experienced.
The book follows our protagonist Zoey. She lives in a small trailer with her three younger siblings, her mother, her mother’s boyfriend that provides for them, and his friend that often stays there. Zoey has social anxiety (though it’s not explicitly stated in the text) and is always teased and bullied in school for her appearance and ‘stink’ since she lives in a trailer park and her family barely has any money to get food on the table.
At the beginning of the novel, Zoey is in a state of mind where she misses her old mom that used to smile and be fun and be a mom. She isn’t sure where she fits in, and she is always letting others talk about her in bad ways. She has absolutely no self-confidence and is scared of others.
“An octopus might start out defenseless, but it sure doesn’t stay that way.”
She grows exponentially by the end of the novel. I loved reading about how she became stronger and started standing up for herself, the things she believes in, and others she cares about. Zoey might be one of the younger protagonists I’ve read about – 14 or 15 years old – but she was definitely up there as one of the smartest and strongest I’ve ever read.
As a character, Zoey is wonderful. She’s flawed and made decisions that had me frustrated but they were realistic. She joined the debate club at her school but she isn’t confident enough to stand up and talk so she would skip or run out of class. This was annoying but realistic.
I also loved that even though she grew a lot and became more outspoken by the end of the book, her personality and the way she acted didn’t change. She was still the same person, but stronger and more resilient.
Family was such a large focus of the book, as Zoey spends most of her time outside of school taking care of her younger siblings. Her mom is either at work, cooking dinner and running errands for her boyfriend Lenny, or sleeping so Zoey becomes the main caretaker for her younger sister and brothers. Their family might not be perfect, but they stick together against all odds which is what’s most important.
This book might be classified as middle grade but it read almost like a young adult due to the serious topics that are discussed such as domestic abuse and gun control. I think that these topics were handled very well by the author and written wonderfully given the intended age group of the readers and the age of the protagonist.
Overall this was a wonderful book that I read super quick. Whenever I picked up the book and started reading, I didn’t want to put it down. I recommend this to anyone looking for a book with heart, lovable (and hate-able) characters, and important topics.
**TW: domestic abuse, gun violence, bullying**
March 6, 2019
I read this book for the Around the Year in 52 Books challenge of something I stumbled across this year. I found it on audible when browsing one day and it just seemed right up my ally.
There's so much to like about this book, including discussions about how nothing is ever just black and white, and that there are all kinds of greys in issues around being human in this world. It also deals with abuse and that it doesn't have to look like physical violence in order to be abuse, has the main character's family escaping a situation and finally realizing that she can choose how she wants to be in this life. She becomes far more empowered when she embraces her point of view on various issues and is respected for it and in turn develops more motivation to be the best person she can be, even if her circumstances aren't the greatest. Of course all of this is done through the lens of wanting to be like the majestic and amazing octopus! XD
There's so much to like about this book, including discussions about how nothing is ever just black and white, and that there are all kinds of greys in issues around being human in this world. It also deals with abuse and that it doesn't have to look like physical violence in order to be abuse, has the main character's family escaping a situation and finally realizing that she can choose how she wants to be in this life. She becomes far more empowered when she embraces her point of view on various issues and is respected for it and in turn develops more motivation to be the best person she can be, even if her circumstances aren't the greatest. Of course all of this is done through the lens of wanting to be like the majestic and amazing octopus! XD
March 7, 2019
This has Newbery written all over it, imo. Issues explored carefully, not simplistically. Controversies explored without straw men. Adults who are real, who are flawed but trying (though not always very hard), who were young once themselves. An admission that there's no such thing as HEA but an inspiration to keep on working towards one.
And lots and lots of potential for classroom and family discussion, for enrichment activities, and obviously for bibliotherapy.
Also, despite being fairly intense, it wasn't too hard to read. There are plenty of scraps of hope, joy, and even humor. I actually enjoyed reading it.
And the thing is, I host a Newbery discussion group. And many of the books we read there are not enjoyable....
And lots and lots of potential for classroom and family discussion, for enrichment activities, and obviously for bibliotherapy.
Also, despite being fairly intense, it wasn't too hard to read. There are plenty of scraps of hope, joy, and even humor. I actually enjoyed reading it.
And the thing is, I host a Newbery discussion group. And many of the books we read there are not enjoyable....
March 4, 2019
This book gives a desperately needed voice to the youth in our communities who face the hardships of poverty. It is so difficult for those not living in poverty to understand the impact on those who do. This book is a tender, compassionate, and beautiful call to empathy.
The thing I was most unprepared for as a teacher was the emotional weight that comes with caring about young people who live in poverty. I have students who are homeless, who miss school to care for younger siblings, who have struggled in the foster care system, who self-harm, who do not have enough to eat. They are more than statistics. They have names and I see them nearly every day. I hope that they know that I love them. After reading this book, I want to give them all temporary octopus tattoos and a copy of this book. I don't think that their peers really recognize the severity of their hardships, but I want them to know that I see them.
I see you. I love you. Your story is worth telling. I will listen.
The thing I was most unprepared for as a teacher was the emotional weight that comes with caring about young people who live in poverty. I have students who are homeless, who miss school to care for younger siblings, who have struggled in the foster care system, who self-harm, who do not have enough to eat. They are more than statistics. They have names and I see them nearly every day. I hope that they know that I love them. After reading this book, I want to give them all temporary octopus tattoos and a copy of this book. I don't think that their peers really recognize the severity of their hardships, but I want them to know that I see them.
I see you. I love you. Your story is worth telling. I will listen.
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