The+Astonishing+LIfe+of+Octavian+Nothing

Stephany Weaver Historical Fiction October 26, 2009 //The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing Traitor to the Nation, Volume I: The Pox Party// by M.T. Anderson 351 pages Synopsis: This novel is set in Pre-Revolutionary War America. We meet our protagonist at the College of Lucidity in Boston where he was born. This “professors” at this college study and educate the young Octavian. His young mother also is taught and studied at the College. His every bodily function is measured, but Octavian does not know why. Octavian’s servant and friend Bono enlightens him on his purpose at the College. Octavian searches the college and questions professors to confirm Bono’s words. What he finds out disturbs him. The College of Lucidity needs funding to continue their studies and invite the wealthy Lord Cheldthorpe to come learn more about the College. A turn of events during Lord Chedlthrope’s visit change Octavian’s life forever. We follow our protagonist through his tumultuous life through 1st person narrative, then advertisements, and letters from those around him. Evaluation: //The Astonishing LIfe of Octavian Nothing// is a very intense and interesting novel. There were times when I would gasp in surprise and cry in agony. The events of Octavian’s life unfold before you as though you were standing beside Octavian. Throughout the novel M.T. Anderson does a very good job of engaging the reader. Towards the end of the novel there are scratch outs and ink blots that really make the text come alive with an authenticity lacking in many novels. Author’s view of Adolescents and Society: M.T. Anderson excels at opening a completely new world for adolescents. Parts of this book would be a wonderful supplement non-fiction reading in an American History class, because it depicts aspects of that period in such a colorful and meaningful way. M.T. Anderson depicts adolescents as having the same emotional span of any adult by allowing his young protagonist to be express himself. He also gives Octavian a voice by writing most of the novel from his perspective. Recommendations: Students might be scared by the text in Latin, but Octavian always offers a translation. Some of the words and sentence structure may be difficult for readers, but it is well worth it to plow on through. Though the story may seem long, but the chapters are short enough that the reading pace is very quick. I would recommend this novel to those interested in Pre-Revolutionary and Revolutionary American history, race relations, and awesome books! As suggested before, parts of this book would illuminate many incidences in American history. I would suggest that the teacher read this book to her students aloud during a free reading time.