> Skip to content
Play sample
  • Published: 12 November 2024
  • ISBN: 9781984816115
  • Imprint: Nancy Paulsen Books
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 176
  • RRP: $19.99

Opinions and Opossums





Agnes has been raised to keep her opinions to herself, but how do you keep silent when you’re full of burning questions?

Agnes has been raised to keep her opinions to herself, but how do you keep silent when you’re full of burning questions?

Agnes has been encouraged not to question authority by her mom—but that’s especially hard in religion class, where it bugs her that so much gets blamed on Eve and that God’s always pictured one way. Fortunately, Agnes’ anthropologist neighbor, Gracy, gets Agnes thinking after they rescue an opossum together. Playing dead didn’t serve the opossum well, so maybe it’s time for Agnes to start thinking for herself. And when Agnes learns that some cultures picture God as a female, she feels freed to think—and write—about things from new perspectives. As she and her best friend, Mo, encourage each other to get out of their comfort zone at school as the quiet kids, they quickly find it’s sorta cool seeing people react when they learn you are very much full of thought-provoking opinions. Ann Braden has written a fast-paced, funny novel that will resonate with anyone who’s ever been afraid to say what they think or question the status quo.

  • Published: 12 November 2024
  • ISBN: 9781984816115
  • Imprint: Nancy Paulsen Books
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 176
  • RRP: $19.99

Also by Ann Braden

See all

Praise for Opinions and Opossums

PRAISE FOR OPINIONS AND OPOSSUMS
     “Perfect for middle-graders of any faith, especially those learning to make their faith their own. The relatable core plot, which folds in themes of income inequality, sexism, and asserting one's rights, moves quickly, and . . . the strong women in Agnes' life steal the show.” —Booklist
     “Braden crafts a nuanced story supported by clear metaphors and honest, deep emotions. Readers faced with similar situations will find support here even if it’s only the confirmation to keep questioning. As Agnes learns and grows, she comes to realize that there are many conceptions of religion and God. . . . Mind-expanding.” —Kirkus
    “Inspiration and guidance come via a Beyoncé documentary featuring Maya Angelou, and from Gracy’s teachings about archeology, anthropology, history, and poetry, as Agnes works to understand women’s underreported, vital roles throughout history, and the importance of perspective in accounts of the past. . . . Empowering.” —PW
  “Braden shares a multigenerational story of how poetry and speaking your truth can be refreshing and connecting. This novel could be useful in social emotional learning lessons about being patient when change happens slowly or allowing oneself permission to feel anger. . . . A healthy reminder that the status quo continually needs to be challenged by thoughtful youths.” —SLJ