Opal the Octopus is Overwhelmed is a children’s book about a Opal, a young octopus who accepts every commitment coming her way! Pretty soon she is barely keeping up and the important things in her life start to slip. With guidance and support, Opal is able to RESET and find balance in her life.

This was a cute story with a purpose. Ashley Bartley and Brian Martin did a great job pairing the writing and illustrations! I really enjoyed the fun whimsical aspects of the book. I also like that the book modeled setting healthy boundaries and finding balance in a busy world. It was nice that at the end of the book there was information for parents/teachers on how to apply concepts to real-life. I found that many of the concepts applied to my own adult life as well!

Overall, this is a great option for talking about important topics with K4-1st grade children. This is a book that I would purchase for my classroom!

I absolutely loved Opal the Octopus is Overwhelmed! The book is beautifully illustrated and written. Opal the Octopus has too much on her plate and is experiencing stress and anxiety. Opal's Mom teaches her about the value of RESET and how to prioritize her life so that Opal can have a joyful life once again. It also has an author's note in the back of the book to teach families and educators how to RESET. This book is perfect for kids and adults and would be great to be read in a classroom, library story time, or as a family. Thanks to NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read this book. (This review is also on GoodReads.)

‘Opal Octopus says yes to everything, without taking time to think through it. Now she’s overwhelmed by too much on her plate, because she’s quick to agree’

Summing up this book in three words is easy: PRECIOUS. RELATABLE. IMPORTANT.

‘My mind feels squishy and scattered. I can’t focus on one thing at a time. Wanting to be perfect at everything I do really makes my anxiety climb!’

Preach, Opal. As a perpetual juggler of too many things at once, I related to this lovely little book so much. Like, honestly, everyone should read this whether they're a kid or an adult. Trying to balance everything at once is exhausting and stressful and, in the words of dear Opal, anxiety-inducing. Listen to this octopus and make time for yourself!

This book is about an Octopus who wants to please everyone so she does for everyone else, leaving herself and her own well being last. It’s good to show kids that putting yourself first and making sure you are happy and healthy before doing for others is not necessarily a bad thing. Cute illustrations and a great message!