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Hijacked by Goats
Not yet published
Expected 8 Sep 26176 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication September 8, 2026
2 people are currently reading
28 people want to read
About the author
Ann Braden
9 books377 followersAnn Braden writes books about kids learning to stand up for themselves even when it’s hard. Her debut middle grade novel, THE BENEFITS OF BEING AN OCTOPUS, was called one of “the essential middle school reads from the last decade” by Edutopia, and FLIGHT OF THE PUFFIN sparked a coast-to-coast read aloud with tens of thousands of students taking part. Her newest book, OPINIONS AND OPOSSUMS, was a School Library Journal Best Book of the Year. Ann founded the Local Love Brigade, which sends love postcards to those who are facing hate. She also founded GunSenseVT, a grassroots group which helped pass landmark common ground gun safety legislation. Previously a middle school teacher, Ann lives in southern Vermont with her husband, two kids, and two insatiable cats.
Find out more on her website.
Find out more on her website.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
April 4, 2026
Ann Braden has tackled tough situations through her main characters before (class privilege, identity, gun laws and more) but in HIJACKED BY GOATS, Jo/Josie is hurting herself and the voice in her brain keeps telling her that she deserves to be punished even more unless she can be perfect.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) has been demonstrated in various entertainment media by characters who perform compulsive behaviors such as repetitive actions, counting, precise placement of objects in their surroundings and a number of other accurate but incomplete responses. Using middle grade Jo and her first person perspective, Braden gives readers a look inside the mind of one person facing OCD and the intrusive thoughts that can sometimes manifest themselves in self-harm. For the purposes of an approachable length book of less than 200 pages, Jo’s recovery timeline is compressed to a likely unrealistic 3 or 4 months, but the need for family/friend support, counseling, possible anti-depressant or anti-anxiety medication, exposure therapy and daily coping techniques such as visualization and progressive muscle relaxation are clearly articulated in a way that achieves reader education in a gripping and, for lack of a better word, “entertaining” way.
Braden indicates briefly in her author’s note that her subject is deeply personal and thanks a variety of professionals in related fields which does not adequately reveal the kind of research that must have been done in order to achieve such detailed descriptions of group and individual activities in a residential treatment program, the interviews and observations needed so Jo’s internal conflicts would be accurate and responses of her contemporaries would be realistic. There is friend drama that contributes to Jo’s crisis as well as those who are supportive and professional treatment is presented in a positive way. Should “Hijacked” be used in an instructional setting, the humorous use of Hal the obnoxious and smelly goat as an analogy for the voice in Jo’s head is threaded throughout and will provide ample opportunity for higher level discussion and the main and supporting characters demonstrate a well-developed cast with examples of those who could be identified as “round,” “static,” or “dynamic” characters but not a “flat” one in the bunch!
Highly recommended for classrooms and libraries serving those in grades 5 and up. If looking for another format/book with the same intensity and main conflict, Lily Williams’ graphic novel EXPOSURES is also excellent and its use of illustrative techniques to convey intrusive and destructive thinking is fabulous.
*Profanity: none
*Sexual content: none
*Violence: Jo’s cutting and self-destructive thinking is clearly articulated without becoming overly graphic. Destructive actions of patients in the residential facility are handled in the same way.
*Representation: various mental health conditions; main characters are varied in age and personality but things like race or sexual identity is not indicated nor pertinent to the topic
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) has been demonstrated in various entertainment media by characters who perform compulsive behaviors such as repetitive actions, counting, precise placement of objects in their surroundings and a number of other accurate but incomplete responses. Using middle grade Jo and her first person perspective, Braden gives readers a look inside the mind of one person facing OCD and the intrusive thoughts that can sometimes manifest themselves in self-harm. For the purposes of an approachable length book of less than 200 pages, Jo’s recovery timeline is compressed to a likely unrealistic 3 or 4 months, but the need for family/friend support, counseling, possible anti-depressant or anti-anxiety medication, exposure therapy and daily coping techniques such as visualization and progressive muscle relaxation are clearly articulated in a way that achieves reader education in a gripping and, for lack of a better word, “entertaining” way.
Braden indicates briefly in her author’s note that her subject is deeply personal and thanks a variety of professionals in related fields which does not adequately reveal the kind of research that must have been done in order to achieve such detailed descriptions of group and individual activities in a residential treatment program, the interviews and observations needed so Jo’s internal conflicts would be accurate and responses of her contemporaries would be realistic. There is friend drama that contributes to Jo’s crisis as well as those who are supportive and professional treatment is presented in a positive way. Should “Hijacked” be used in an instructional setting, the humorous use of Hal the obnoxious and smelly goat as an analogy for the voice in Jo’s head is threaded throughout and will provide ample opportunity for higher level discussion and the main and supporting characters demonstrate a well-developed cast with examples of those who could be identified as “round,” “static,” or “dynamic” characters but not a “flat” one in the bunch!
Highly recommended for classrooms and libraries serving those in grades 5 and up. If looking for another format/book with the same intensity and main conflict, Lily Williams’ graphic novel EXPOSURES is also excellent and its use of illustrative techniques to convey intrusive and destructive thinking is fabulous.
*Profanity: none
*Sexual content: none
*Violence: Jo’s cutting and self-destructive thinking is clearly articulated without becoming overly graphic. Destructive actions of patients in the residential facility are handled in the same way.
*Representation: various mental health conditions; main characters are varied in age and personality but things like race or sexual identity is not indicated nor pertinent to the topic
Review of advance copy received from Author
Although it’s not publishing until September, I was given an early copy of Ann Braden’s Hijacked by Goats to read.
I’m always in awe of the way Ann’s writing is able to capture her characters’ thoughts and emotions, but Jo(sie)’s story surrounded by mental health challenges resonated with me in a very deep way, and I think it’s a very important book for upper middle grade readers.
Because she can’t choose between friends and lunch table groups, Josie believes she’s a bad person and a bad friend. As her brain convinces her of these things, she believes she deserves to be hurt and harms herself. Her story begins with her dad taking her to get admitted to a mental health hospital, hoping they can help Josie in a way he simply can’t.
There, Josie begins to learn about the way her brain works. She believes her brain’s responsible and perfectionist ways are strengths, while the counselors try to show her that too much of those qualities can also be harmful.
After an incident at the hospital, Josie is discharged and returns home to find that Hal, the mean goat her dad helps care for, is back at her farm. Hal often blocks Jo from getting into things (like the car), and she thinks he’s a big bully. When her dad finds new therapists for Jo, they help her see that her OCD and perfectionist ways are compatible to the ways Hal acts. Josie slowly comes to terms with her diagnosis and the way her brain can be hijacked and bully her.
As a parent and adult reader, I was glad to see the important discussion between characters on page 54 about medication and how long it can take to find one that works for YOU. It’s such an important conversation.
A few of my favorite lines:
Page 35:
“Really, Matilda’s first challenge is to recognize that she doesn’t have to let him define her - or define how she’s going to end up. And that’s something that a person can do, no matter how big they are or how much power they have.” He looks around at us. “But it usually isn’t easy.”
Pages 46/47:
“But really, everyone with OCD experiences differently. The way it can show up can be as unique and varied as human beings themselves.”
…
“My hunch is that it’s focused on obsessively putting others’ wants before your own.”
I replaced the fidget I’ve been playing with and pick up a different one. “But that’s just being kind. That’s what I’m supposed to do.”
“Not all the time. And you’re supposed to be kind to yourself too.”
I twist the fidget around and around. No, I’m not. That’s being selfish.
“And this is mixed with feeling overly responsible…” she says.
I’m SUPPOSED to be responsible.
“And feeling like you have to be perfect, “she continues. “And that you should punish yourself if you’re not perfect, based on, however, the OCD wants to define perfection.“
Page 59:
“…Perfection isn’t what we’re going for.” I freeze and look up at him. What is he talking about? Perfection is always what I’m going for.
…
When he speaks again, his voice is different. “Remember that perfection, especially consistent perfection, isn’t possible for any human being on this earth, so try to let go of that goal as much as you can. Otherwise, it can feel like constant failure.”
Pages 105:
Ms. Crandell squares her shoulders and skewers me with her eyes. “My dear, there is no battle more real or more intense than the battle for one’s own mind.”
I’m always in awe of the way Ann’s writing is able to capture her characters’ thoughts and emotions, but Jo(sie)’s story surrounded by mental health challenges resonated with me in a very deep way, and I think it’s a very important book for upper middle grade readers.
Because she can’t choose between friends and lunch table groups, Josie believes she’s a bad person and a bad friend. As her brain convinces her of these things, she believes she deserves to be hurt and harms herself. Her story begins with her dad taking her to get admitted to a mental health hospital, hoping they can help Josie in a way he simply can’t.
There, Josie begins to learn about the way her brain works. She believes her brain’s responsible and perfectionist ways are strengths, while the counselors try to show her that too much of those qualities can also be harmful.
After an incident at the hospital, Josie is discharged and returns home to find that Hal, the mean goat her dad helps care for, is back at her farm. Hal often blocks Jo from getting into things (like the car), and she thinks he’s a big bully. When her dad finds new therapists for Jo, they help her see that her OCD and perfectionist ways are compatible to the ways Hal acts. Josie slowly comes to terms with her diagnosis and the way her brain can be hijacked and bully her.
As a parent and adult reader, I was glad to see the important discussion between characters on page 54 about medication and how long it can take to find one that works for YOU. It’s such an important conversation.
A few of my favorite lines:
Page 35:
“Really, Matilda’s first challenge is to recognize that she doesn’t have to let him define her - or define how she’s going to end up. And that’s something that a person can do, no matter how big they are or how much power they have.” He looks around at us. “But it usually isn’t easy.”
Pages 46/47:
“But really, everyone with OCD experiences differently. The way it can show up can be as unique and varied as human beings themselves.”
…
“My hunch is that it’s focused on obsessively putting others’ wants before your own.”
I replaced the fidget I’ve been playing with and pick up a different one. “But that’s just being kind. That’s what I’m supposed to do.”
“Not all the time. And you’re supposed to be kind to yourself too.”
I twist the fidget around and around. No, I’m not. That’s being selfish.
“And this is mixed with feeling overly responsible…” she says.
I’m SUPPOSED to be responsible.
“And feeling like you have to be perfect, “she continues. “And that you should punish yourself if you’re not perfect, based on, however, the OCD wants to define perfection.“
Page 59:
“…Perfection isn’t what we’re going for.” I freeze and look up at him. What is he talking about? Perfection is always what I’m going for.
…
When he speaks again, his voice is different. “Remember that perfection, especially consistent perfection, isn’t possible for any human being on this earth, so try to let go of that goal as much as you can. Otherwise, it can feel like constant failure.”
Pages 105:
Ms. Crandell squares her shoulders and skewers me with her eyes. “My dear, there is no battle more real or more intense than the battle for one’s own mind.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm a big fan of Ann Braden's work and was excited to receive an early copy of this book. My favorite aspect of Ann's writing is her understanding that children often have no choice but to face very real, sometimes life-threatening challenges that would send even a well-adjusted, successful adult into a tailspin!
In Hijacked by Goats. Jo is struggling with some pretty overwhelming symptoms of OCD. As a licensed psychologist, I'm especially pleased with Ann's accuracy in terms of symptoms, variations in presentation, need for support, and different aspects of and options for treatment. Jo presents the many helpers in her life with some very realistic resistance, and Ann's refusal to tie the conclusion into a beautiful, finished bow is refreshing and realistic.
One of Ann's strongest gifts is her authenticity. Her characters are not perfect. They're often overwhelmed. They make mistakes. But they keep trying, and they do their best even when they would pretty much rather do anything else.
I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this book to a child struggling with this disorder, but I would also recommend it to children across the board. The characters in this book are regular people struggling with something that's rearing up at one point in their lives. Just like almost everyone struggling with mental illness, they'll deal with it as best they can, hopefully learn some strategies for coping with or overcoming symptoms, and then they'll go on to struggle with algebra, trying to buy whatever is 'in' this year, and trying to make decisions they won't regret. Just like everyone else.
In Hijacked by Goats. Jo is struggling with some pretty overwhelming symptoms of OCD. As a licensed psychologist, I'm especially pleased with Ann's accuracy in terms of symptoms, variations in presentation, need for support, and different aspects of and options for treatment. Jo presents the many helpers in her life with some very realistic resistance, and Ann's refusal to tie the conclusion into a beautiful, finished bow is refreshing and realistic.
One of Ann's strongest gifts is her authenticity. Her characters are not perfect. They're often overwhelmed. They make mistakes. But they keep trying, and they do their best even when they would pretty much rather do anything else.
I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this book to a child struggling with this disorder, but I would also recommend it to children across the board. The characters in this book are regular people struggling with something that's rearing up at one point in their lives. Just like almost everyone struggling with mental illness, they'll deal with it as best they can, hopefully learn some strategies for coping with or overcoming symptoms, and then they'll go on to struggle with algebra, trying to buy whatever is 'in' this year, and trying to make decisions they won't regret. Just like everyone else.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Many times we refer to books as being mirrors, windows and sliding glass doors but every so often you read a story that places that concept front and center. Readers are taken on a journey of understanding through the eyes of Josie (Jo) as she navigates the overwhelming thoughts in her brain and the resulting actions. Ironically, her physical compulsions are what finally make her internal conflicts visible to the world.
After being admitted to Bryce Haven Psychiatric Hospital, Jo learns about how OCD can result in the struggles and emotions she is having. But, imagine someone telling you that your brain, the "thinking" part of yourself, is actually working against you? Worse than that, it is a total bully! In fact, it is just as bad as the smelly, rude and disagreeable goat Hal that she and her father are temporarily housing.
To find herself again, Jo must move past her initial denial and learn how to face this bully head-on. She is supported along the way by a cast of new friends (and some ladybugs) she meets at Bryce Haven, her steadfast and loving father and a therapist who has dedication and true empathy. In addition to her own development, Jo sees how the power of story and the spoken word can transform others in a way all of its own.
This story was a delight to read, even as your heart wrenches with Jo's lows and untangling of what is going on inside of her. Readers receive a vital glimpse inside of one girl's OCD, but most importantly, it is also a story about love, healing and hope. And, even a "bulldozer" of a goat can be moved with the right motivation. Highly recommend.
After being admitted to Bryce Haven Psychiatric Hospital, Jo learns about how OCD can result in the struggles and emotions she is having. But, imagine someone telling you that your brain, the "thinking" part of yourself, is actually working against you? Worse than that, it is a total bully! In fact, it is just as bad as the smelly, rude and disagreeable goat Hal that she and her father are temporarily housing.
To find herself again, Jo must move past her initial denial and learn how to face this bully head-on. She is supported along the way by a cast of new friends (and some ladybugs) she meets at Bryce Haven, her steadfast and loving father and a therapist who has dedication and true empathy. In addition to her own development, Jo sees how the power of story and the spoken word can transform others in a way all of its own.
This story was a delight to read, even as your heart wrenches with Jo's lows and untangling of what is going on inside of her. Readers receive a vital glimpse inside of one girl's OCD, but most importantly, it is also a story about love, healing and hope. And, even a "bulldozer" of a goat can be moved with the right motivation. Highly recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Middle grade novels hold a unique kind of magic and Ann Braden unlocks that magic with every novel she writes. Her newest book is no exception. HIJACKED BY GOATS is a heartfelt middle grade novel that delicately captures Josie’s inner world and the sheer number of compulsive and overwhelming thoughts that battle for her attention. Officially diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Josie progresses through residential treatment and outpatient therapy as she navigates recovery and a kinder way of treating herself. Ann delicately captures the challenges Josie faces, the overwhelming thoughts and feelings that won’t let her rest and the brave choices she makes to move through them with the support of new friends, family and knowledgeable professionals. While every middle grade reader might not be able to relate to Josie directly, they WILL be able to relate to going through something hard, wishing away particular thoughts or feelings or knowing someone who is struggling with their mental health. So will every adult reading this book, too. This book so beautifully captures the entirety of the human condition and invites every emotion to the table, holding out a hand to those that need it and providing a window of empathy to those that need that, too. It’s an incredible book and I’m forever grateful for having read it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the opportunity to read an advance copy of Hijacked by Goats by Ann Braden. Such a powerful & important addition to my middle grade classroom library. Best suited for grades 5–7, this story follows Josie (“Jo”), a girl navigating life with OCD who finds herself in a psychiatric hospital as her journey unfolds.
Braden tackles a big, complex topic with honesty and care, presenting it in a way that middle grade readers can understand. Jo is a deeply relatable character, and her relationship with her dad adds so much heart to the story.
The book is fast-paced and engaging, with short chapters that make it especially accessible for today’s reluctant reader. Braden understands her audience and meets them where they are without sacrificing depth or meaning.
This is a story about facing your inner struggles, standing up to the personal bullies in your mind, and finding your voice through persistence, courage, and community. It will spark important conversations and stay with readers long after they’ve finished it.
Braden tackles a big, complex topic with honesty and care, presenting it in a way that middle grade readers can understand. Jo is a deeply relatable character, and her relationship with her dad adds so much heart to the story.
The book is fast-paced and engaging, with short chapters that make it especially accessible for today’s reluctant reader. Braden understands her audience and meets them where they are without sacrificing depth or meaning.
This is a story about facing your inner struggles, standing up to the personal bullies in your mind, and finding your voice through persistence, courage, and community. It will spark important conversations and stay with readers long after they’ve finished it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ann Braden has done it again! She takes incredibly challenging topics and creates engaging stories that connect with readers. I was lucky enough to get access to an advanced reader copy of Hijacked by Goats, where the main character Jos(ie) battles OCD and is hospitalized for treatment. The frank and honest way Braden writes about this character's struggles makes this very difficult topic accessible and meaningful. Her very supportive father, a new friend made in treatment, and a neighbor provide structure and help as Josie returns home and uses strategies to help manage her OCD. This is another book written straight from the heart. The shorter length of around 200 pages makes this novel a great fit for upper elementary and middle school readers who want a deep dive into hard topics in a quicker read. 10/10, highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am so glad I got an Advanced Copy of Hijacked by Goats and don’t have to wait until the September release. This book speaks truths about mental health experiences, OCD and the different ways it can present, as well as coping strategies, medication processes, and the mental and physical benefits of hobbies and activities. It tackles the subjects in an interesting and engaging way, but even more importantly in a responsible way. It will benefit the readers immensely to have read this book whether they are middle grade age, or adult age. Jo’s thoughts and actions ring realistic and authentic to her voice.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A beautiful, heart wrenching book about Jo, a young person experiencing a mental health crisis. The story provides a pitch perfect view into Jo’s self talk, her hospitalization, a
and her bravery in trusting a team of caring adults support her the journey back to being in control of her life. the courage to face “bully-goat” Hal, going back to school, and building friendships that are better for her.
As a parent of child with significant mental health challenges, I am so appreciative of the author sharing this story. I also love that My Neighbor Totoro becomes a soothing factor in Jo’s life!!
and her bravery in trusting a team of caring adults support her the journey back to being in control of her life. the courage to face “bully-goat” Hal, going back to school, and building friendships that are better for her.
As a parent of child with significant mental health challenges, I am so appreciative of the author sharing this story. I also love that My Neighbor Totoro becomes a soothing factor in Jo’s life!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have loved all of Ann Braden's books. This book I know is very personal to her and I love that her heart is to share challenges with readers to encourage, connect and help others. I learned a lot about OCD from this book and it gave me ways to better understand some of my students. My absolute favorite thing about Ann's books are that she uses an animal in them in different ways. In this book the stinky, misbehaving, ornery goat is used to help the reader and the main character Jo understand how OCD impacts her life. I can't wait to purchase a couple of copies of this book to provide at my school library for students. They all love her books as do I. Another home run book!
May 4, 2026
Ann Braden’s Hijacked by Goats is a deeply personal and heartfelt middle grade novel that explores mental health in a thoughtful, accessible way.
Josie Martinez, is taken to a psychiatric hospital after repeatedly cutting herself with scissors after an incident among friends at school.
Josie receives a diagnosis of OCD and begins the difficult work of learning how to manage the constant voice in her head that demands she be perfect all the time.
Braden handles this sensitive topic with a lot of care. Readers get a close look at what it’s like to live with OCD, especially how exhausting and isolating those intrusive thoughts can be.
I highly recommend it.
Josie Martinez, is taken to a psychiatric hospital after repeatedly cutting herself with scissors after an incident among friends at school.
Josie receives a diagnosis of OCD and begins the difficult work of learning how to manage the constant voice in her head that demands she be perfect all the time.
Braden handles this sensitive topic with a lot of care. Readers get a close look at what it’s like to live with OCD, especially how exhausting and isolating those intrusive thoughts can be.
I highly recommend it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love Ann Braden's books, and this is my favorite one yet. I was so invested in Josie and was rooting for her throughout the story. It's a fast-paced read that handles mental health in a way that feels realistic and respectful. This is a great book for 5th grade and up, and it would be great for class or book group discussions. Could be especially interesting to pair it with a mental health awareness talk from a school counselor, or incorporate it as part of a mental health awareness week program.
I read an advanced copy of the book that I received from the author/publisher.
I read an advanced copy of the book that I received from the author/publisher.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ann Braden has done it again! With Hijacked by Goats, readers are allowed to be inside of Jo’s psyche as she learns she has OCD, what it is, and how to work through it. Jo has to learn how to be a friend not only to her peers but to herself. Hal the goat is a physical presence that Jo must take on and also a mental one. For anyone who has dealt with perfectionism, it is a must-read! Everyone needs to read this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow! Ann Braden does it again. Josie is a girl who struggles with overwhelming worries and begins her story in the hospital. The book tells of her journey to get help from therapy and support from those around her. Amazing book about OCD and what could be happening in your brain as thoughts overtake your actions. Short chapters and a relatable story will interest middle grade readers and inform readers about OCD. Will release in September. Pre-order now.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Amazing! I read this book in one sitting. I am a middle school teacher and Ann Braden gets it right. The narrator and other characters are spot-on. The topic, OCD, is so important to discuss, both for people dealing with it personally and for those who love them. I love that Ann's books always include and animal, and this one had me researching more about goats. Although this is a very heavy topic, there is also a lot of lightness and humor. I can't wait to share this book with my students!
March 16, 2026
I was lucky enough to be chosen to be part of an ARC reading crew for Ann Braden’s newest book- Hijacked by Goats. Ann tackles a very serious topic - OCD- with grace and even a little humor. I learned so much about what OCD is and isn’t always. I can’t wait to get this into the hands of kids and teachers! Releases in September!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ann Braden writes both gently and thoughtfully about the challenges so many face. This story will resonate with young readers, so many of whom face similar mental worries. Written from experience and with an authentic voice, Jo's story amplifies a voice many don't understand. This is a powerful book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I can honestly say I thought I knew what OCD was. I was wrong. There are so many more facets to it that can be debilitating. Thank you to Ann for the ARC opportunity. You’ve once again written a book of overcoming obstacles and hope. Your authentic voice makes this book perfect.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews