Consider the Octopus is told through alternating perspectives of a boy named JB and girl named Sidney who are both aboard a ship headed to the Great Pacific Garbage patch. JB's mother works there and Sidney is on board due to a mix-up. The two have to work together to maintain the lie they told to explain Sidney's presence on the ship and come up with a plan to draw media attention to the environmental mission of the ship. Both main characters are charming and relatable and the book talks about ocean pollution in a way that kids can easily grasp. Overall a good choice for any middle-grade reader with an interest in environmentalism.

Delightful story of synchronicity, two persistent 12 year olds, and a garbage island the size of Texas.

A great story of friendship among two 12 year olds who think they don't fit in. Also, a primer on the Great Pacific Garbage Patch: what it is, how it was created, and why it's a problem.
Sidney and JB meet after a series of coincidences and mix ups - or possibly synchronicity. They spend a week onboard a scientific research vessel studying the Great Pacific Garbage Patch and trying to get the media to pick up the story.
A sweet, funny, and informative read. Great for classroom use in science or language arts. Also a great independent read.