Reviews with content warning for Emotional abuse - The Benefits of Being an Octopus

This book deals with a lot of important topics (poverty, domestic abuse, gun violence), and for the most part I believe handles them in a realistic and thoughtful way. I especially appreciated how the author portrayed emotional abuse, since that can be more subtle than obvious physical violence, and I think it can be good for young readers to see those examples so they can better recognize it if they encounter it in their own lives. I also thought the author did a great job at showing just how difficult it was for the mom to leave, even when she wanted to (no car, no funds for their own apartment, the homeless shelters full, etc.), which I think can help readers be more understanding and sympathetic of women in similar situations instead of thinking they're stupid for staying with someone who treats them badly.

That said, I do wonder about how kids who /are/ in similar situations to Zoey might take this book. It's tough, because on one hand, from a narrative standpoint, you want the main character to take charge and play an active role in moving the story forward, so it makes sense for Zoey to be the main one to "save the day" by the end. But I wonder if it might make some readers feel like they should also be responsible for, say, convincing their mom that her boyfriend is abusive, and then finding a solution to get the family out and keep everyone safe. I know it's a story, so it doesn't have to be perfectly realistic, but I do just wish there was an author's note or something at the end giving resources, or at least some kind of reassurance that it should never actually be the child's responsibility to fix things like that, and if you try to and fail it isn't your fault. I don't know. Maybe this book is meant more for kids who /aren't/ in those situations, so they can build empathy and understanding for those who are.

Also... Tbh, I didn't really buy

everyone at the end telling Zoey "Oh, you're so good at debate, please come back on the team!" because like... All she did was show up halfway through one of their first practice debates, yell at everybody about how they're all wrong, and then run away. And like, sure, she made a lot of good points, I'd even agree with her on most of it from what I can remember, but it really wasn't a "debate". She didn't go back and forth with an opponent and defend her points. She just yelled and left. So yeah.

But yeah, overall I did enjoy it, and the audiobook narrator did a good job. I'm glad I randomly found it available on Libby.

Content Warnings

bookishaddictions's review against another edition

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challenging emotional hopeful inspiring reflective sad tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

This book is a good tribute to the kids that are struggling with poverty or stuck living in an abusive home (even if it isn’t physical). Zoe shows how wise yet naive a young teen can be all at once when forced to perform adult responsibilities at a young age; her younger siblings (Bryce, Aurora, and Hector) are perfect examples of the different reactions that young children can have in these circumstances. The story shows the love and power that individuals in their position can reclaim, such as by joining a club, alongside the difficulties that their temporary powerlessness can create. Readers also get to learn some fun octopus facts while they face these darker topics too, so that’s a bonus. I found TBOBAO on @libby.app as an audiobook, so check if your local library has a copy 🎧

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ericah31's review against another edition

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hopeful medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

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sarahbroccoli's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful sad medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

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nerp's review against another edition

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dark emotional hopeful reflective sad tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

God, this book. The first half-hour had me almost in tears. A powerful, compassionate look at childhood poverty, emotional abuse, school bullying, and finding your voice.

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sonn5105's review against another edition

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emotional reflective sad

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes

3.25

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