Benefits of Being an Octopus, The

Seventh-grader Zoey has much to contend with: living in poverty, taking care of her siblings while her Mom works, completing the daily tasks at home, and trying to fit in her homework. If only she had an octopus’ eight arms to cope with it all. Although Zoey tries to keep a low profile at school her teacher insists she join the debating team and although it is another chore, it helps Zoey understand her mother’s and her best friend’s situation, and gives her skills to help them. Suitable for a novel study or literature circle, the novel addresses sensitive issues of poverty, class structure, verbal and physical abuse, and complex relationships.