Hope everyone has a great day and gets some reading in. I will be starting Sense & Sensibility by Jane Austen for the Jane Austen Reading Challenge. The challenge is being hosted by Canterbury Classics throughout the whole year. I’m looking forward to reading this book because it is one of the only Jane Austen books that I know nothing about.
In honor of Middle Grade March, I decided to review some of the best MG books I read separately from my end of the month reviews. This will also be in my monthly post.
Octopus Moon
By Bobby Pyron
Read March 3rd-4th
Pages 336
Release Date: March 25th, 2025
📚📚📚📚📚
Octopus Moon is a book I didn't know I needed in my life, but I'm so glad I found it. It is about a young girl named Pearl who is dealing with many changes in her life as she starts fifth grade. She is having a difficult time finding the energy and the willpower to do what she needs and wants to do. The story is written from her perspective in verse as she navigates her life and deals with depression.
"Depression lies."
This was such a touching story which I related to on so many levels. I haven't had depression since I was Pearl's age but it has been a part of my life for many years. Never thought I'd see myself so much in this ten year old girl. So much of what she expresses in these beautiful lines of verse is what I feel on my darkest days. It had me tearing up as I read many parts of her story.
Over the years, I have had to learn to cope just like she does with her therapist. I like how the author also shows how depression can be generational and the stigmas against it. She shows how hard it is to have an invisible disease that is only in your own head.
One of the best parts is watching Pearl and her family/friends working together to help Pearl get through the bad and the good days. It was beautiful to see her with such a healthy support system in her life. They are not perfect and it is important to show young readers how everyone learns and grows.
"Love is a verb."
Pearl's fascination with marine life, especially turtles and octopuses plays a big role in the plot too. I enjoyed reading the sections where she got excited about these creatures. It was heartwarming.
I cannot recommend this book enough. It will be great for the middle grade readers in your life, but I also believe adults should read it too. Pearl's story is one I'm sure many people will relate to and one I think needs to be read. Definitely, one of the best middle grades I have read in my life. Please pick this up when it comes out at the end of the month.
*Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my ARC. All opinions are my own.*