Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus by Dusti Bowling

Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus by Dusti Bowling ☆☆☆☆☆

All last year, Mrs. Montjoy (an ELA teacher at my school & #bookvoyage member) raved about Dusti Bowling's debut novel, Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus. Many of her students raved about it as well. Unfortunately, our school library didn't own a copy (no budget 😢) until Mrs. Montjoy donated one of her copies. So I'm a little late to the party since I just got around to reading it, but oh my, was it good!

Aven's family has just moved to Arizona, so she is starting at a brand-new-to-her middle school. While this situation would be difficult for anyone, it's even more difficult for Aven because she was born without arms. At her old school, everyone knew about Aven's condition, so it was no big deal. They were used to her doing everything with her feet, even eating; now, she feels like a "freak" because everyone at her new school is staring at her, and no one will talk to her. 

When she hears a boy (Connor) barking at her in the school library, she bravely confronts him and asks about his rude behavior. What Aven perceived as bullying was actually just a Tourette's tic. Aven and Connor become fast friends because they both feel like outcasts at their school. Throw in a little mystery involving Aven's new home, a western-themed park, and an old picture of a girl who looks just like Aven, and you've got one fantastic book.

I love books with short chapters because you feel like you are flying through them. At 262 pages, this book isn't exactly short, but it is such a fast read due to the quick chapters. I think students will really appreciate that aspect. Bowling's debut would be a welcome addition to any library as it teaches so many wonderful lessons about empathy and embracing those with differing abilities. As the mom of an autistic son, I really appreciate reading novels that point out all the positives and unique abilities of those who are not necessarily typical.