Review: "The Benefits of Being an Octopus," by Ann Braden

Seventh-grader Zoey is in charge of her two younger siblings while her mom works at the local pizza shop. Her mom's boyfriend, Lenny, lets them live in his trailer. Zoey has her hands full with homework and being "mom" to her siblings, but her teacher sees potential in her and wants her to join the after-school debate club. Zoey isn't sure how to make it work and she certainly doesn't want to be outspoken and give her opinion aloud in front of her peers. Meanwhile, her best friend is threatened and turns to Zoey for help. With all of this going on, Zoey imagines what it would be like to be an octopus with its camouflaging powers, eight arms to chase kids and do homework and housework with, and the chance to spray ink on her enemies.

Mrs. Denney's Rating: ***1/2

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