Pearl loves hanging out at the Gulfarium where her mother works. Her first love is the loggerhead sea turtles, but lately she has been fascinated by octopus facts. She has learned that octopi are sensitive and can feel everything. That's how Pearl has been feeling recently, too.
It is getting harder and harder to get out of bed in the morning. At first, she thinks it is because starting fifth grade has her worried and nervous. It's more than that though. Hanging out with her two best friends is becoming more difficult, too. She has always been shy and quiet, but now when her friends suggest activities, Pearl is sure she would rather be home in her darkened bedroom.
At parent/teacher conferences, Pearl's parents learn that her grades have been slipping, she isn't turning in homework, and her mind seems to be somewhere else. This concern has her parents making an appointment for her with a therapist. Now Pearl is worried and nervous about that.
Diagnosed with depression, Pearl finds herself facing her feelings and learning new ways to cope with them. As she learns more, she recognizes the same symptoms in her grandfather and also learns that depression can hereditary.
OCTOPUS MOON by author Bobbie Pyron is perfect for middle grade readers needing to understand a condition that effects so many people today. Pyron describes Pearl's situation well and will help readers understand what it is like to deal with depression both personally and as a family member or friend.
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