Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus

Born without arms, 13-year-old Aven Green approaches her unique life with good humor, grace, and unflagging positivity—until her parents take a job managing a worn-out Western theme park in Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus (2017). Suddenly the new kid at school, Aven discovers that others have trouble seeing past her disability to the creative, funny person inside. Aven’s life changes when she meets Connor, who struggles with Tourette syndrome. Author Dusti Bowling’s debut middle grade novel is a sensitive exploration of self-acceptance, belonging, and the power of friendship. Bowling drew on personal experiences to create the characters in Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus: Her cousin suffered a severe arm injury, and several of Bowling’s close family members have tic disorders. The novel is a call for empathy and inclusion for people with differences.

Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus received starred reviews from School Library Journal and Booklist. The novel was chosen as a Junior Library Guild selection and appeared on the 2018 Library of Congress 52 Great Reads list. Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus is followed by Momentous Events in the Life of a Cactus (2019).