Essay Questions

What is the symbolic meaning of the octopus in the novel?

The octopus is part of the novel's title and holds big significance to Zoey. The octopus symbolizes Zoey's passion. When Zoey is given an assignment to do a presentation on the benefits of being an Octopus, she admires its ability to transform into different shapes. Zoey also admires the ability of the octopus to defend itself. Throughout her life, Zoey struggles to fight her shyness and insecurities. The lessons Zoey learns from the octopus help her to work extraordinarily hard to be confident and successful.

Using an example, explain how the author explores the theme of poverty and unequal distribution of resources.

In the novel The Benefits of Being an Octopus, Ann Braden uses various characters to show society's rampant poverty and unequal distribution of resources. Zoey and her mother live in Lenny's trailer house. The trailer houses are located in a low-income neighborhood. Zoey's mother is a casual worker in a Pizza Pit where she works as a cook. The salary Zoey's mother gets is inadequate to live on her own without depending on Lenny. The other illustration is that of Silas and Fuchsia. Silas and Fuchsia live in trailer houses with their stepfathers. Life in the neighborhood is hard because of inadequate essential services. Other kids like Lydia and Matt come from privileged backgrounds. The kids from wealthy backgrounds are courageous, bold, entitled and influential in school. However, children like Zoey and Fuchsia are shy because their parents cannot afford good clothes and shoes for them.

What is the role of Ms. Rochambeau in empowering Zoey to become a strong and confident young woman?

Ms Rochambeau is Zoey's English teacher, and after some time, she discovers that Zoey has a problem. Ms. Rochambeau notices that Zoey is a bright girl but is shy and does not want to associate with others. Ms. Rochambeau talks with Zoey and listens to all her challenges. The first step Ms. Rochambeau takes is boosting Zoey’s confidence and developing her voice. To achieve this first step, Ms. Rochambeau identifies her class's sociable and courageous students and puts them in Zoey's close circle. For instance, Zoe sat beside Matt and Lydia, very popular students. Secondly, Ms. Rochambeau encourages Zoey to forget about her challenges while in school and concentrate on her studies. Thirdly, Ms. Rochambeau ensures that Zoey participates in English debates and discussions. In the end, Zoey develops a strong voice and becomes very confident. Zoey grows up and becomes a courageous, confident girl who stands for her family. In addition, Zoey becomes successful, and she helps her family to get out of poverty.