The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing

M. T. Anderson

Candlewick Press, Cambridge, 2006

Genres: Historical Fiction, Multicultural, Family, War

Reading Level: Young Adult (14-18)

Pages: 353

Awards: National Book Award, Printz Honor, Horn Book Award, ALA Top Ten Books

Summary:

Octavian has always know that he was different, though he hasn't really known why. Certainly he grew up under the tutelage of many scholars, and his mother was an African Princess, and they weighed and measured his feces, but he still couldn't seem to figure it out. Then he went into the forbidden room and discovered the truth about his existence.

Reaction:

Well written, though a little slow at the beginning. This is a book that really makes you think about what it means to be human and equal. It addresses slavery, patriotism, scientific ethics, and many other issues without actually lecturing the reader. There were a few parts towards the end that got me very excited about reading history and learning more about the revolutionary war. It's a good book for most ages, and it's excellent for stimulating discussion.

Cautionary Note: Violence, Slavery, Some Graphic injuries, Unethical Science Experiments