Monentous Events in the Life of a Cactus by Dusti Bowling

 Aven Green was born without arms, but has a spunky, can-do attitude. That comes crumbling down when she starts high school and is the recipient of some really cruel bullying. Her family and friends turn a deaf ear to her pleas that she be allowed to become a hermit, and gradually she starts to rebuild her confidence and even experiences her first crush.

This is the second in the adventures of Aven Green.  It is pretty similar in tone and plot to the first one but that isn't a bad thing.  Even though Aven has a really obvious disability, I think most young readers will relate to how she feels and responds to bullying.  The author has a good sense of teen voice, and understands the courage it sometimes takes to do even small acts. One thing I like about the book is the portrayal of Aven's and Zion's parents.  They are quirky and geeky, but so supportive. Good supportive parents are a rarity in teen lit. (272 p. 2017)