While the main character is 13, I’d say this book is most appropriate maturity-wise for fourth or fifth graders. It’s still a middle grade book, not what I would consider in the young adult category.

Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus is about a girl named Aven who was born without arms. Still, no one is going to tell her what she can or can’t do. She still plays sports (soccer) and the guitar and goes to normal public school like other kids. Because she’s gone to the same school since kindergarten, no one really thinks that much of her differences. But now, Aven isn’t in Kansas anymore.

Her family uproots to Arizona to run a deteriorating theme park called Stagecoach Pass. This means Aven will have to start a new school, somehow manage to find new friends, and gather up the courage to deal with “the looks” from classmates and teachers.

This book is precious. It shows the humanity of children with differences, be they glaringly physical (like Aven’s lack of arms) or neurological (like Tourette’s).

Although it’s a middle grade book, Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus doesn’t shy away from tough issues, mainly themes of disabilities and adoption. There’s mystery and friendship and perseverance in spades. I think most middle school students could enjoy this book.