What do skateboards, octopuses, and poetry have in common? In Bobbie Pyron’s newest novel-in-verse, Octopus Moon, they all play a role in one young girl’s emotional survival.

In this heartfelt conversation, Bobbie Pyron — author of beloved middle-grade novels Stay, The Dogs of Winter, Lucky Strike, and more — joins host Annisha Jeffries to talk about:

• The real-life ocean memories that shaped Octopus Moon

• Writing about mental health for young readers with honesty and hope

• Why verse was the perfect voice for Pearl’s story

• Skateboarding, friendship, and the metaphor of riptides

• Her path from librarian to author (with a few detours like rock bands and dog training!)

• The joy and challenge of creating stories that help kids feel less alone

Whether you’re a reader, an educator, or someone who’s ever felt like the world is a little too much sometimes, this conversation will speak to your heart.

📚 Featured Book:
Octopus Moon by Bobbie Pyron (Margaret Ferguson Books, 2024)
Now available wherever books are sold.

✨ Other books mentioned:

• Stay

• Lucky Strike

• The Dogs of Winter

• A Dog’s Way Home

🎧 Subscribe to Reading in the Middle for more conversations with middle-grade authors, and don’t forget to leave a review or share with a book-loving friend.

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