A review by suzyvee
The Benefits of Being an Octopus by Ann Braden

dark emotional hopeful sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

This was a heart-wrenching middle grade novel, which follows Zoey, a 7th grade girl who lives in poverty with her mom, 2 brothers, one sister, and her mom’s boyfriend. She is responsible for much more than any 7th grader should be. The portrayal of Zoey’s family seem really accurate, given my previous experience working with families who lived in poverty.