A Heart in a Body in the World by Deb Caletti

A Heart in a Body in the World by Deb Caletti
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I read this award winner (Best Fiction for YA, Printz Honor) as part of the 2019 HUB Reading Challenge. Also special thanks to my reading buddy, Kellyanne Burbage, for her awesome mention that I may have recommended this book (sorry I did not, but happy your tweet prompted me to read this stunner!!!) I loved this book for so many reasons and all of them are not good---this book will tear apart your heart with Annabelle's grief and suffering as she runs from (herself and what happened) Seattle, WA to Washington, D.C. trying to make sense out of her broken heart (and previous self) and honor those impacted by dating violence. The cover of this book was perfect to---you must see it, read it and you will know what I am talking about. Annabelle's sorrow, anger, and grief propel her to run (away from something or toward something?) and as she runs she tells us her story and you reader, will be gripped and outraged as you enter Annabelle's world because what she tells us is being experienced throughout the world; it is a serious problem and affect way too many of us. This is a must read for all---YA and adults! Highly recommended!

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The Benefits of Being an Octopus by Ann Braden

The Benefits of Being an Octopus by Ann Braden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I heard so much about this book; but Jennifer Lagarde's recommendation on twitter made me jump up and get it at the library. Oh did my heart ache for Zoey's life; her mother's constant boyfriends meant moving a lot. With super neat Lenny as the latest boyfriend, Zoey goes from thinking the trailer they live in with him and his father is the best to being the worst. Lenny abuses Zoey's mom verbally, he plays with her mind (which makes her cry and shrink into herself) and then she begins to change too. But it is when Zoey becomes involved in debate club and her friend, Fuschia needs her help; Zoey must dig deep----be an octopus---using all eight of her arms to see she must take control of her life; her mom, her friend, and her brother and sisters in order to save them and while she is saving them, she becomes stronger, a better friend and daughter, and begins to believe in herself. I loved Zoey so much; I ached for her when she doubted herself (which was often) and I rooted for her to achieve a better life. Readers will be empathetic as they read about class, bullying, and guns and a heroine you won't soon forget. A must read for all middle schoolers, school counselors, parents---this unfortunately is a very disturbing but true reality for many kids. Highly recommended!

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