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Hijacked by Goats
The moving story of a girl struggling with OCD—the bully hijacking her brain—who gets the help she needs to push back.
Josie arrives at Bryce Haven Psychiatric Hospital sure that she’s a bad person and a bad friend. She must be, because her brain constantly yells at her for not being good enough. It tells her she needs to be perfect or else she’ll be alone and miserable forever. She’s so overwhelmed with worries about bad things happening as punishment for her imperfections that she sometimes feels compelled to punish herself.
Then, when Josie gets discharged and returns home, she’s forced to deal with Hal—the mean, smelly bully of a goat her dad is goat-sitting. Hal has a bad habit of climbing where he shouldn’t and refusing to get out of the way.
When Josie’s therapist diagnoses her with OCD, describing it as a bully in her brain, Josie denies it. Surely her brain is just trying to be helpful . . . right? But eventually, she begins to see that her OCD bears a striking resemblance to Hal, so maybe she shouldn’t feel guilty about wanting to kick it out. With her therapist’s help and the support of her dad and friends, Josie might finally be ready to stand up to the bully in her brain.
Josie arrives at Bryce Haven Psychiatric Hospital sure that she’s a bad person and a bad friend. She must be, because her brain constantly yells at her for not being good enough. It tells her she needs to be perfect or else she’ll be alone and miserable forever. She’s so overwhelmed with worries about bad things happening as punishment for her imperfections that she sometimes feels compelled to punish herself.
Then, when Josie gets discharged and returns home, she’s forced to deal with Hal—the mean, smelly bully of a goat her dad is goat-sitting. Hal has a bad habit of climbing where he shouldn’t and refusing to get out of the way.
When Josie’s therapist diagnoses her with OCD, describing it as a bully in her brain, Josie denies it. Surely her brain is just trying to be helpful . . . right? But eventually, she begins to see that her OCD bears a striking resemblance to Hal, so maybe she shouldn’t feel guilty about wanting to kick it out. With her therapist’s help and the support of her dad and friends, Josie might finally be ready to stand up to the bully in her brain.
175 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 8, 2026
About the author
Ann Braden
7 books386 followersAnn Braden writes books about kids learning to stand up for themselves even when life is hard. Her debut middle grade novel, THE BENEFITS OF BEING AN OCTOPUS, was named one of NPR's Best Books of 2018 and called one of "the essential middle school reads from the last decade" by Edutopia. FLIGHT OF THE PUFFIN sparked a coast-to-coast read aloud with tens of thousands of students taking part, and was a Bank Street Best Book. OPINIONS AND OPOSSUMS was a School Library Journal Best Book of the Year, and INTO THE RAPIDS was named an ALA Notable Book. Her newest novel, HIJACKED BY GOATS, is a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection.
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: www.annbradenbooks.com
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: www.annbradenbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 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
Thanks for sharing a print arc with me, Ann Braden!
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
Thanks for sharing a print arc with me, Ann Braden!
May 26, 2026
I learned so much while reading this book. In true Ann Braden fashion, she’s tackled another tough topic and made it feel so human. I loved seeing this side of OCD as well as the coping strategies and mental health professionals that provided support. This book has so much to offer anyone, but especially someone struggling to understand what’s happening inside their own mind. I can’t wait for this book to be published in September for everyone to read. This is another beautiful gem, Ann! Im so grateful for your books!
September 13, 2026
I don’t know how Ann Braden manages to pack so much of an emotional and character punch in such slim novels, but she never disappoints! This is another powerful, beautiful story that I can’t wait to recommend to many readers.
July 11, 2026
Another 5 ⭐️ read from Ann Braden! She tells the story of a struggling girl with OCD so well and so thoughtfully. It pulled at my heartstrings.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Braden, Ann. Highjacked by Goats
September 8, 2026 by Nancy Paulsen Books
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
Josie Martinez is willingly starting a stint at the Bryce Haven Psychiatric Hospital, although it was precipitated by an incident where she cut herself because of stress. She wants to please everyone, and her brain tells her she should be punished when things go wrong, so the drama in her friend group worsened her usual anxious condition. She immediately befriends Phoebe, who is working through anger issues. Josie's hobby is making art out of trash, so when the girls find a small infestation of ladybugs, they build a ladybug hotel to keep them safe. Josie's single father works at the grocery store, but is devoted to her care, and visits her even though she is an hour away from home. She benefits from therapy, medication is started, and she is diagnosed with not only anxiety and depressive disorders, but also a form of OCD. After Phoebe leaves, Josie goes home, but is still too fragile to be left alone during the day, even though the father has taken all of the scissors and knives out of the house. Because he has to go to work, he has a retired neighbor, Ms. Crandall, stay with Josie. Ms. Crandall doesn't fool around, and soon has Josie doing yoga, eating lentils and yogurt for breakfast, knitting, copying words from the dictionary, and doing crossword puzzles. Josie also starts seeing a therapist, Rayna, who compares Josie's intrusive thoughts to the goat that the Martinez' are kidsitting at their farm. Hal is stinky and obnoxious, and will frequently plant himself on top of the car or mailbox, interfering with daily activities. Josie's thoughts are the same, and she has to learn how to manage them. She meets up with Phoebe when she travels to Buffalo for her appointments, and finds some comfort in playing soccer. Her father has limited her contact with her friends and her social media, but eventually she has to tell them what that's happened and return to school. Some friends, like Lucy, understand what Josie is going through, and others are best avoided. Hal eventually goes home, and Josie has a lot of support in place to deal with her various mental health issues.
Strengths: When I quickly went through my mental file for "books where characters are hospitalized for mental health disorders", the first thing I came up with was John Neufeld's 1969 Lisa Bright and Dark, followed by Green and Greenberg's 1964 I Never Promised You a Rose Garden. Josie's experience is MUCH different, and much more indicative of the state of mental health care in 2026. Thirty to fifty years ago, a tween being treated in a psychiatric facilty would have been more unusual and dire; today, while still dire, it is much more common, as well as more accepted. Josie's father doesn't hesitate at all to get her any of the help she needs, and makes sure she has appointments with different types of doctors to fully address her issues. It was good to see that she had time away from her friends, but that she was able to be honest with them about her diagnosis. Of course, my favorite character was Ms. Crandall; even though she is doing all of the things that my generation thinks will cure any mental health challenges, she never mentions anything about Josie's anxiety, depression, or intrusive thoughts as she forces her to participate in therapeutic "grandma hobbies"! It was good to see her develop a relationship with Phoebe and to take up soccer.
Weaknesses: The cover is not attractive and looks like the book was published in 1989. I wish this didn't matter, but it does. If the goat was completely necessary to have on the cover, I would have chosen something more like Piontek's Better with Butter, which is another instructive book about anxiety that students pick up because the cover is cute.
What I really think: This is a good choice for readers who want a clearer look at a serious mental health issue. It's important to keep these books updated in a school library; I know I weeded Tasjian's excellent 1999 Multiple Choice and Hesser's Kissing Doorknobs because the treatments seemed outdated. Hand this to readers who found Pyron's Octopus Moon, Khan's Drawing Deena or Rompella's Cookie Cutters & Sled Runners interesting. I'll probably buy a copy, but the cover might make this a title that requires some hand selling.
September 8, 2026 by Nancy Paulsen Books
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
Josie Martinez is willingly starting a stint at the Bryce Haven Psychiatric Hospital, although it was precipitated by an incident where she cut herself because of stress. She wants to please everyone, and her brain tells her she should be punished when things go wrong, so the drama in her friend group worsened her usual anxious condition. She immediately befriends Phoebe, who is working through anger issues. Josie's hobby is making art out of trash, so when the girls find a small infestation of ladybugs, they build a ladybug hotel to keep them safe. Josie's single father works at the grocery store, but is devoted to her care, and visits her even though she is an hour away from home. She benefits from therapy, medication is started, and she is diagnosed with not only anxiety and depressive disorders, but also a form of OCD. After Phoebe leaves, Josie goes home, but is still too fragile to be left alone during the day, even though the father has taken all of the scissors and knives out of the house. Because he has to go to work, he has a retired neighbor, Ms. Crandall, stay with Josie. Ms. Crandall doesn't fool around, and soon has Josie doing yoga, eating lentils and yogurt for breakfast, knitting, copying words from the dictionary, and doing crossword puzzles. Josie also starts seeing a therapist, Rayna, who compares Josie's intrusive thoughts to the goat that the Martinez' are kidsitting at their farm. Hal is stinky and obnoxious, and will frequently plant himself on top of the car or mailbox, interfering with daily activities. Josie's thoughts are the same, and she has to learn how to manage them. She meets up with Phoebe when she travels to Buffalo for her appointments, and finds some comfort in playing soccer. Her father has limited her contact with her friends and her social media, but eventually she has to tell them what that's happened and return to school. Some friends, like Lucy, understand what Josie is going through, and others are best avoided. Hal eventually goes home, and Josie has a lot of support in place to deal with her various mental health issues.
Strengths: When I quickly went through my mental file for "books where characters are hospitalized for mental health disorders", the first thing I came up with was John Neufeld's 1969 Lisa Bright and Dark, followed by Green and Greenberg's 1964 I Never Promised You a Rose Garden. Josie's experience is MUCH different, and much more indicative of the state of mental health care in 2026. Thirty to fifty years ago, a tween being treated in a psychiatric facilty would have been more unusual and dire; today, while still dire, it is much more common, as well as more accepted. Josie's father doesn't hesitate at all to get her any of the help she needs, and makes sure she has appointments with different types of doctors to fully address her issues. It was good to see that she had time away from her friends, but that she was able to be honest with them about her diagnosis. Of course, my favorite character was Ms. Crandall; even though she is doing all of the things that my generation thinks will cure any mental health challenges, she never mentions anything about Josie's anxiety, depression, or intrusive thoughts as she forces her to participate in therapeutic "grandma hobbies"! It was good to see her develop a relationship with Phoebe and to take up soccer.
Weaknesses: The cover is not attractive and looks like the book was published in 1989. I wish this didn't matter, but it does. If the goat was completely necessary to have on the cover, I would have chosen something more like Piontek's Better with Butter, which is another instructive book about anxiety that students pick up because the cover is cute.
What I really think: This is a good choice for readers who want a clearer look at a serious mental health issue. It's important to keep these books updated in a school library; I know I weeded Tasjian's excellent 1999 Multiple Choice and Hesser's Kissing Doorknobs because the treatments seemed outdated. Hand this to readers who found Pyron's Octopus Moon, Khan's Drawing Deena or Rompella's Cookie Cutters & Sled Runners interesting. I'll probably buy a copy, but the cover might make this a title that requires some hand selling.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley and Nancy Paulsen Books of Penguin Young Readers Group for the chance to read this arc!
Josie, "Jo", finds herself at Byrce Haven Psychiatric Hospital, struggling with a brain that tells her she needs to be punished for her mistakes and constantly fears the worse for everyone around her. The doctors there diagnosed her with OCD, but she denies it. After all, her brain is trying to help her make everyone around her happy, help make things safe and perfect, right? Even after leaving the hospital, she still struggles with her new reality. The fact that her dad is goat-sitting the smelly, selfish goat Hal for a friend when she returns home isn't helping. Hal takes over everything around, creating chaos all over. When a specialist notes how similar her OCD and Hal act, like bullies trying to take over. With this knowledge and help with friends and family, Jo may just find the courage to face the bullies in her life.
This is such a wonderful, important story. I don't have OCD, but I'm Autistic with ADHD and anxiety and honestly I know what it's like to have a brain that just won't cooperate with you or just keeps catastrophizing your situation. And what can you do? It's your own mind basically telling you the worst, how can you not listen to it as well as question yourself? And whenever someone tells you not to worry, it's the real life equivalent of in movies when one person tells another on a rickety bridge, "Hey don't look down." What happens? The second person looks down and chaos and terror ensue. That person just unleashed so many more worries that I didn't have before. I heavily relating with Jo, finding myself whenever her brain is too loud, you feel like the you're the worst for messing up, and so much.
I also found myself loving Jo herself, being so creative and sweet. She wants to make a town for the ladybugs she finds in the hospital cafeteria, she makes a gift for her her new friend Phoebe, and she makes both out of trash! Her dad is very supportive, doing all kinds of things to help Jo with her diagnosis and making sure she stays safe. And I know Jo will call me crazy for this but I loved Hal-the goat. She'd probably think it's because I can't smell him. He's just a huge menace, taking over the barn and going wherever he wants, whenever he wants. Watching Jo slowly becoming more determined to take on Hal and learn to cope with her diagnosis was great.
I greatly appreciate how Jo's OCD is depicted. I'm sure many of us have the idea of OCD being all about cleanliness, orderliness and fearing germs. It's so common that people have even commented when they fix their dollar bills so they all face the same, "Sorry, I've got OCD about this." Once a guy asked me, "You got OCD?", when I was just straightening up some books so they look nice. But like with much of neurodiversity, one diagnosis looks different depending on the person. Every brain is different. Jo's OCD is more focused on perfection in relationships and punishing herself when she believes she's messed up in them. This does get discussed in the book and its all the more heartwarming. I'm glad also that the book does show medication for mental health as an aid and in a good light, especially when it get stigmatized so often.
While in the hospital, we meet other kids that are struggling themselves. We don't get a diagnosis for everyone else, but we can see them dealing with different issues. Phoebe, Jo's new friend, deals with anger issues, Baxter a mean kid who lashes out at others, and some others too. It's great to see how they also learn to deal with their own struggles was great too.
Overall, I think this book will speak to anyone that deals with a loud brain and learning to live with it. It brings up discussions about mental health, self-care, and learning to love yourself even if your mind says others wise. I hope everyone gets a chance to get to know Jo and learn how to be kind to themselves!
Favorite Quote-hard to choose this time but I'm going with: "Hal keeps staring at us, and Dad whispers, 'How is the mailbox supporting his weight?'
'Maybe he doesn't have weight.' I whisper back. 'Maybe he's a demon spirit.'
'Do you think he wants a sacrifice?'" Love this scene, it really highlights the father-daughter bond and the menace that is Hal.
Josie, "Jo", finds herself at Byrce Haven Psychiatric Hospital, struggling with a brain that tells her she needs to be punished for her mistakes and constantly fears the worse for everyone around her. The doctors there diagnosed her with OCD, but she denies it. After all, her brain is trying to help her make everyone around her happy, help make things safe and perfect, right? Even after leaving the hospital, she still struggles with her new reality. The fact that her dad is goat-sitting the smelly, selfish goat Hal for a friend when she returns home isn't helping. Hal takes over everything around, creating chaos all over. When a specialist notes how similar her OCD and Hal act, like bullies trying to take over. With this knowledge and help with friends and family, Jo may just find the courage to face the bullies in her life.
This is such a wonderful, important story. I don't have OCD, but I'm Autistic with ADHD and anxiety and honestly I know what it's like to have a brain that just won't cooperate with you or just keeps catastrophizing your situation. And what can you do? It's your own mind basically telling you the worst, how can you not listen to it as well as question yourself? And whenever someone tells you not to worry, it's the real life equivalent of in movies when one person tells another on a rickety bridge, "Hey don't look down." What happens? The second person looks down and chaos and terror ensue. That person just unleashed so many more worries that I didn't have before. I heavily relating with Jo, finding myself whenever her brain is too loud, you feel like the you're the worst for messing up, and so much.
I also found myself loving Jo herself, being so creative and sweet. She wants to make a town for the ladybugs she finds in the hospital cafeteria, she makes a gift for her her new friend Phoebe, and she makes both out of trash! Her dad is very supportive, doing all kinds of things to help Jo with her diagnosis and making sure she stays safe. And I know Jo will call me crazy for this but I loved Hal-the goat. She'd probably think it's because I can't smell him. He's just a huge menace, taking over the barn and going wherever he wants, whenever he wants. Watching Jo slowly becoming more determined to take on Hal and learn to cope with her diagnosis was great.
I greatly appreciate how Jo's OCD is depicted. I'm sure many of us have the idea of OCD being all about cleanliness, orderliness and fearing germs. It's so common that people have even commented when they fix their dollar bills so they all face the same, "Sorry, I've got OCD about this." Once a guy asked me, "You got OCD?", when I was just straightening up some books so they look nice. But like with much of neurodiversity, one diagnosis looks different depending on the person. Every brain is different. Jo's OCD is more focused on perfection in relationships and punishing herself when she believes she's messed up in them. This does get discussed in the book and its all the more heartwarming. I'm glad also that the book does show medication for mental health as an aid and in a good light, especially when it get stigmatized so often.
While in the hospital, we meet other kids that are struggling themselves. We don't get a diagnosis for everyone else, but we can see them dealing with different issues. Phoebe, Jo's new friend, deals with anger issues, Baxter a mean kid who lashes out at others, and some others too. It's great to see how they also learn to deal with their own struggles was great too.
Overall, I think this book will speak to anyone that deals with a loud brain and learning to live with it. It brings up discussions about mental health, self-care, and learning to love yourself even if your mind says others wise. I hope everyone gets a chance to get to know Jo and learn how to be kind to themselves!
Favorite Quote-hard to choose this time but I'm going with: "Hal keeps staring at us, and Dad whispers, 'How is the mailbox supporting his weight?'
'Maybe he doesn't have weight.' I whisper back. 'Maybe he's a demon spirit.'
'Do you think he wants a sacrifice?'" Love this scene, it really highlights the father-daughter bond and the menace that is Hal.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Ann Braden’s newest is a much-have for all classroom libraries, for students to read and discuss in book clubs (which allow safe spaces for deeper discussions on sensitive topics), or the very short chapters make this novel a good read-aloud for a teacher to read and discuss, ideally in collaboration with a guidance counselor.
The protagonist Josie is so well-developed and captivating that I could not leave her story until I finished it, reading the book in one afternoon.
Josie (Jo) worries about being perfect and what will happen if she is not. When her friends have a fight and demand that she choose sides, she can’t choose and she can’t figure out a way to “fix things”; her brain tells her she should be punished. When she starts cutting with scissors, her father commits her to Bryce Haven Psychiatric Hospital.
There she is diagnosed with OCD, and she meets a group of other young adolescents who have varying mental health problems. Jo becomes friends with Phoebe who is learning to manage her anger issues and has a lot of good insights on mental health. She joins Group Time with Phoebe which turns out to be a play in which she and Phoebe, Baxter, Quinn, and Zeke are assigned roles quite different than their actual selves, although Jo accepts that “The child-torturing principal? I guess [Desmond] can already tell that I’m a horrible person. All his smiling was just for show.” (24) Not wanting to lose this possible friendship because her brain warns her, “I need to be a good friend,” I tell myself. I” need to be a perfect friend. Because if I am not perfect, then no one will like me and I’ll be alone forever and I’ll be as miserable as this for the rest of my life.” (27), Jo stays in the group.
When Phoebe is discharged and Quinn kills the ladybugs that Jo and Phoebe have been housing and keeping safe, Jo feels she deserves the punishment.
“I don’t sleep. The screaming isn’t just inside my brain. It’s everywhere. It’s all of me. There’s no part of me that isn’t screaming.
Except never out loud. Never.
Because I can’t make a scene. People would say I just want attention. That I’m making everything about me.
When it’s time to get up in the morning, I get out of bed because I don’t want to upset the hallway nurse and make her job any harder than it is.
At breakfast, I get a tray but I don’t eat what’s on it because I don’t deserve to eat. Someone else deserves the food more than I do.” (82)
Jo and her Dad decide that she should return home. There she is confronted with Hal, her dad’s friend’s goat, a bully who she has to learn to control. This gives her a metaphor for the way her brain bullies her.
With the support of an OCD specialist; a psychiatrist who figures out her meds; her dad; Ms, Crandell, the neighbor who surprisingly helps her with nutrition and activities; and even Phoebe who all teach her a variety of coping strategies, she is finally ready to return to school where she decides to stay away from the middle-school female dramas and be friends with those who agree.
This is such an important read for not only those suffering with mental health issues, those whose peers may be suffering and need support, but those who are dealing with school drama and bullying because “Bullying causes severe short- and long-term harm to mental health, leading to toxic stress, anxiety, depression, and an increased risk of self-harm or suicidal behavior.” (stopbullying.gov)
I have included more quotes than usual in this review because I wanted to show how the author allows readers to see Jo’s thinking and reasonings which makes this a more authentic experience for readers.
Readers will find how the title fits and that it is actually the perfect title for this story.
The protagonist Josie is so well-developed and captivating that I could not leave her story until I finished it, reading the book in one afternoon.
Josie (Jo) worries about being perfect and what will happen if she is not. When her friends have a fight and demand that she choose sides, she can’t choose and she can’t figure out a way to “fix things”; her brain tells her she should be punished. When she starts cutting with scissors, her father commits her to Bryce Haven Psychiatric Hospital.
There she is diagnosed with OCD, and she meets a group of other young adolescents who have varying mental health problems. Jo becomes friends with Phoebe who is learning to manage her anger issues and has a lot of good insights on mental health. She joins Group Time with Phoebe which turns out to be a play in which she and Phoebe, Baxter, Quinn, and Zeke are assigned roles quite different than their actual selves, although Jo accepts that “The child-torturing principal? I guess [Desmond] can already tell that I’m a horrible person. All his smiling was just for show.” (24) Not wanting to lose this possible friendship because her brain warns her, “I need to be a good friend,” I tell myself. I” need to be a perfect friend. Because if I am not perfect, then no one will like me and I’ll be alone forever and I’ll be as miserable as this for the rest of my life.” (27), Jo stays in the group.
When Phoebe is discharged and Quinn kills the ladybugs that Jo and Phoebe have been housing and keeping safe, Jo feels she deserves the punishment.
“I don’t sleep. The screaming isn’t just inside my brain. It’s everywhere. It’s all of me. There’s no part of me that isn’t screaming.
Except never out loud. Never.
Because I can’t make a scene. People would say I just want attention. That I’m making everything about me.
When it’s time to get up in the morning, I get out of bed because I don’t want to upset the hallway nurse and make her job any harder than it is.
At breakfast, I get a tray but I don’t eat what’s on it because I don’t deserve to eat. Someone else deserves the food more than I do.” (82)
Jo and her Dad decide that she should return home. There she is confronted with Hal, her dad’s friend’s goat, a bully who she has to learn to control. This gives her a metaphor for the way her brain bullies her.
With the support of an OCD specialist; a psychiatrist who figures out her meds; her dad; Ms, Crandell, the neighbor who surprisingly helps her with nutrition and activities; and even Phoebe who all teach her a variety of coping strategies, she is finally ready to return to school where she decides to stay away from the middle-school female dramas and be friends with those who agree.
This is such an important read for not only those suffering with mental health issues, those whose peers may be suffering and need support, but those who are dealing with school drama and bullying because “Bullying causes severe short- and long-term harm to mental health, leading to toxic stress, anxiety, depression, and an increased risk of self-harm or suicidal behavior.” (stopbullying.gov)
I have included more quotes than usual in this review because I wanted to show how the author allows readers to see Jo’s thinking and reasonings which makes this a more authentic experience for readers.
Readers will find how the title fits and that it is actually the perfect title for this story.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Rating: 2.5 Stars
Content warning: psychiatric hospital, self-harm, thwarted suicide attempt(?? unclear; possibly severe self-harm), internal monologue of obsessions and compulsions
This was the most accurate portrayal of "pure" OCD I've seen so far, and it somehow managed to depict the disorder excruciatingly accurately while also not being dangerously triggering (at least for me; I'd be curious how other people feel when reading it). I'd consider recommending this to others who want to understand OCD better and know what it's like for someone struggling with it. Plus, it's an incredibly easy read (a faster reader than I could easily get through it in a day). And despite the content warnings, surprisingly this didn't feel heavy like some other MG books on mental health/illnesses. The characters were upbeat, the metaphors and events playful, and the pace quick and clearly pointing towards a hopeful ending. One of my favorite details was Desmond's character and his use of Matilda to help the kids overcome their weaknesses. I also loved the library reunion scene later on, as well as the details about Jo's interests that fleshed her out and made her feel like a real person; "Ladybug Town" was a sweet, creative element that I could totally see a girl like Jo pouring her time into.
Unfortunately, in terms of being an Actual Story and not just an OCD portrayal, it left a lot wanting imo. It felt like one long, fictionalized informational description, with the plot points and external events simply there to describe a different aspect of Jo's internal experience. I loved her relationship with her dad and the ways she had to learn how to navigate friendships, but so much of it was "said" rather than "shown"––esp. the characters in the hospital; we're told so much about them based on Jo's gut judgements, but because we rarely ever see them do anything that supports those judgements, their character growth fell flat. Baxter and Quinn especially seemed to be created to fit specific molds, and then "break" those molds that we'd barely been shown they even fit in the first place (same with Phoebe tbh; we're told over and over she has anger management issues, but never once did we see her actually get really angry??).
Even in terms of Jo's internal experiences, we were shown the spirals in her mind (which were so well done and incredibly moving to me), but rarely shown anything beyond that; we were told how she felt and what she was thinking, instead of the author letting us read between the lines by observing Jo's actions and interactions with the world around her.
A few other "small" complaints: her process of going on medication was painless, fast, and never talked about beyond "her meds" once or twice. Also the one page where her dad readily encouraged her to lie felt so out-of-character and is actually a terrible thing to be communicating to middle graders.
Maybe I'm being a bit harsh in my critique, but the topics this book explored are so important and the heart of it was so compassionate and hopeful, that I would have really loved to see the technical writing live up to the purpose of the book better so that I could easily recommend it as not just a good resource, but also a good story.
That being said, page 91 did make me cry because of how seen it made me feel, and I do think this could serve as a valuable resource for painting the OCD experience for those who don't know what it's like.
Content warning: psychiatric hospital, self-harm, thwarted suicide attempt(?? unclear; possibly severe self-harm), internal monologue of obsessions and compulsions
This was the most accurate portrayal of "pure" OCD I've seen so far, and it somehow managed to depict the disorder excruciatingly accurately while also not being dangerously triggering (at least for me; I'd be curious how other people feel when reading it). I'd consider recommending this to others who want to understand OCD better and know what it's like for someone struggling with it. Plus, it's an incredibly easy read (a faster reader than I could easily get through it in a day). And despite the content warnings, surprisingly this didn't feel heavy like some other MG books on mental health/illnesses. The characters were upbeat, the metaphors and events playful, and the pace quick and clearly pointing towards a hopeful ending. One of my favorite details was Desmond's character and his use of Matilda to help the kids overcome their weaknesses. I also loved the library reunion scene later on, as well as the details about Jo's interests that fleshed her out and made her feel like a real person; "Ladybug Town" was a sweet, creative element that I could totally see a girl like Jo pouring her time into.
Unfortunately, in terms of being an Actual Story and not just an OCD portrayal, it left a lot wanting imo. It felt like one long, fictionalized informational description, with the plot points and external events simply there to describe a different aspect of Jo's internal experience. I loved her relationship with her dad and the ways she had to learn how to navigate friendships, but so much of it was "said" rather than "shown"––esp. the characters in the hospital; we're told so much about them based on Jo's gut judgements, but because we rarely ever see them do anything that supports those judgements, their character growth fell flat. Baxter and Quinn especially seemed to be created to fit specific molds, and then "break" those molds that we'd barely been shown they even fit in the first place (same with Phoebe tbh; we're told over and over she has anger management issues, but never once did we see her actually get really angry??).
Even in terms of Jo's internal experiences, we were shown the spirals in her mind (which were so well done and incredibly moving to me), but rarely shown anything beyond that; we were told how she felt and what she was thinking, instead of the author letting us read between the lines by observing Jo's actions and interactions with the world around her.
A few other "small" complaints: her process of going on medication was painless, fast, and never talked about beyond "her meds" once or twice. Also the one page where her dad readily encouraged her to lie felt so out-of-character and is actually a terrible thing to be communicating to middle graders.
Maybe I'm being a bit harsh in my critique, but the topics this book explored are so important and the heart of it was so compassionate and hopeful, that I would have really loved to see the technical writing live up to the purpose of the book better so that I could easily recommend it as not just a good resource, but also a good story.
That being said, page 91 did make me cry because of how seen it made me feel, and I do think this could serve as a valuable resource for painting the OCD experience for those who don't know what it's like.
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 read the ARC as part of Ann Braden’s ARC tour.
I just finished reading Hijacked by Goats by Ann Braden, and I wish it didn’t have to end. I fell in love with the characters who were so realistically portrayed. Jo (Josie) is hospitalized at the beginning of the story because she was self-harming and even she was aware that being admitted was “the only way to keep [her] safe” (Braden 2). The portrayal of her overwhelming thoughts was vivid and provides the reader insight into anxiety, depressive disorder, and OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder). In addition, the people in Jo’s life were all supportive in their individual ways; honest, genuine, and realistic. I loved Ms. Crandell and her no-nonsense approach, who provided a counterbalance to Jo’s loving father, so obviously devoted to his daughter. In fact, all the adults in the story were portrayed as intelligent, supportive, genuine, and realistic. The children in the hospital who were dealing with their own issues, were portrayed sensitively. The kids at school, who we only glimpse through their text messages and Jo’s perspective, are believable in how they present the middle school experience and the typical tween drama.
This is a much needed story for middle grade students, and perhaps more so for educators. It reveals the inner life of our students who are struggling with mental illness. The first person narrative is powerful in showing the perspective of a child struggling with mental illness, yet it is sensitively and clearly told so that most readers can relate to the characters and gain an understanding of their struggles, without it being too dark or triggering. It touches on mental illness, hospitalization, self-harm, obsessive thoughts, psychiatric care, medication, school support, and the recovery journey. The story ends (too soon) with hope that there are ways to cope with that “bully in her brain.” The metaphor of the obsessive thoughts in her brain being like the goat, Hal, they are taking care of makes understanding the illness more accessible for those who can only imagine what it’s like.
This is a powerful story and a must-read! Hijacked by Goats continues Ann’s increasing portfolio of powerful middle grade stories that reveal insightful perspectives about the human experience. Along with my other favorite, Flight of the Puffin, Hijacked by Goats and all of Ann’s previous titles should be in every middle grade classroom.
I just finished reading Hijacked by Goats by Ann Braden, and I wish it didn’t have to end. I fell in love with the characters who were so realistically portrayed. Jo (Josie) is hospitalized at the beginning of the story because she was self-harming and even she was aware that being admitted was “the only way to keep [her] safe” (Braden 2). The portrayal of her overwhelming thoughts was vivid and provides the reader insight into anxiety, depressive disorder, and OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder). In addition, the people in Jo’s life were all supportive in their individual ways; honest, genuine, and realistic. I loved Ms. Crandell and her no-nonsense approach, who provided a counterbalance to Jo’s loving father, so obviously devoted to his daughter. In fact, all the adults in the story were portrayed as intelligent, supportive, genuine, and realistic. The children in the hospital who were dealing with their own issues, were portrayed sensitively. The kids at school, who we only glimpse through their text messages and Jo’s perspective, are believable in how they present the middle school experience and the typical tween drama.
This is a much needed story for middle grade students, and perhaps more so for educators. It reveals the inner life of our students who are struggling with mental illness. The first person narrative is powerful in showing the perspective of a child struggling with mental illness, yet it is sensitively and clearly told so that most readers can relate to the characters and gain an understanding of their struggles, without it being too dark or triggering. It touches on mental illness, hospitalization, self-harm, obsessive thoughts, psychiatric care, medication, school support, and the recovery journey. The story ends (too soon) with hope that there are ways to cope with that “bully in her brain.” The metaphor of the obsessive thoughts in her brain being like the goat, Hal, they are taking care of makes understanding the illness more accessible for those who can only imagine what it’s like.
This is a powerful story and a must-read! Hijacked by Goats continues Ann’s increasing portfolio of powerful middle grade stories that reveal insightful perspectives about the human experience. Along with my other favorite, Flight of the Puffin, Hijacked by Goats and all of Ann’s previous titles should be in every middle grade classroom.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC from the author for an honest review; here it is.
I LOVED Hijacked by Goats! I've loved all of Ann Braden's novels, but this one hit somewhere different for me, and it's now my new favorite Ann Braden novel.
After her friends' argument and schism, Jo's need to please everyone leads to her breaking point and a stay at Bryce Haven Psychiatric Hospital. There, she is diagnosed with OCD, but the voice in her head, telling her everything is her fault and why can't she be better, doesn't allow Jo to believe she has OCD. Through group therapy and art (Jo loves to make art out of trash), Jo begins to try new things until her friend Phoebe is released, and Jo is left alone. After an incident with another patient, Jo's dad takes her home. At home, Jo's voices are strong, but Hal, the goat Jo's dad is "goat-sitting" for a friend, is louder and stronger. Soon, Jo has to face both Hal and the Hal within her head. Will Jo find strength in herself, or will she be Hijacked by Goats.
Thank you, Ann Braden, for writing this important story. This novel resonated with me in more ways than I can explain. So often adults want to push aside the mental struggles of children and excuse things with maturity or life lessons, but mental health is a struggle for all people at all ages. Braden brings this to light and the pressure children put on themselves. I loved the first person narrative; this novel would not have resonated the same with me had Jo not shared her own story. Jo is strong and weak; she loves and fears; she questions herself because she's trying to understand the world around her in a head of perfection. So many young people (and adults) can find themselves (or aspects of themselves) within Jo. She is broken and mending; loved for who she is, not who she thinks she should be; she is beauty and peace even though she doesn't experience that or allow herself to experience it. Even as I write this review, I have tears over my love for Jo and this novel. Thank you, Ann Braden! Finally, Braden's depiction of the adults is so real. Jo's dad loves her and just wants what is best for her even when Jo does not understand this. Again, thank you Ann Braden for bringing this much needed novel to all readers.
I LOVED Hijacked by Goats! I've loved all of Ann Braden's novels, but this one hit somewhere different for me, and it's now my new favorite Ann Braden novel.
After her friends' argument and schism, Jo's need to please everyone leads to her breaking point and a stay at Bryce Haven Psychiatric Hospital. There, she is diagnosed with OCD, but the voice in her head, telling her everything is her fault and why can't she be better, doesn't allow Jo to believe she has OCD. Through group therapy and art (Jo loves to make art out of trash), Jo begins to try new things until her friend Phoebe is released, and Jo is left alone. After an incident with another patient, Jo's dad takes her home. At home, Jo's voices are strong, but Hal, the goat Jo's dad is "goat-sitting" for a friend, is louder and stronger. Soon, Jo has to face both Hal and the Hal within her head. Will Jo find strength in herself, or will she be Hijacked by Goats.
Thank you, Ann Braden, for writing this important story. This novel resonated with me in more ways than I can explain. So often adults want to push aside the mental struggles of children and excuse things with maturity or life lessons, but mental health is a struggle for all people at all ages. Braden brings this to light and the pressure children put on themselves. I loved the first person narrative; this novel would not have resonated the same with me had Jo not shared her own story. Jo is strong and weak; she loves and fears; she questions herself because she's trying to understand the world around her in a head of perfection. So many young people (and adults) can find themselves (or aspects of themselves) within Jo. She is broken and mending; loved for who she is, not who she thinks she should be; she is beauty and peace even though she doesn't experience that or allow herself to experience it. Even as I write this review, I have tears over my love for Jo and this novel. Thank you, Ann Braden! Finally, Braden's depiction of the adults is so real. Jo's dad loves her and just wants what is best for her even when Jo does not understand this. Again, thank you Ann Braden for bringing this much needed novel to all readers.
September 13, 2026
Thank you Penguin Young Readers Group and Nancy Paulsen Books for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I thought this book was an amazing read!
"Hijacked by Goats" follows Jo, a young teen, as she gets admitted to a mental hospital following a self-harm crisis. There, she gets diagnosed with OCD, and the book follows her journey of learning how to start managing it and coping.
I have read books before about characters with some mental health struggles, but I don't think I've read one before from the perspective of a young character this age where their intrusive thoughts are on such full display. It was really unique!
Around the 25% mark, it was getting a little tough to stay engaged. The day-to-day activities while she was admitted were a bit of a drag to read (perhaps that was the point, considering how much of a drag psych wards are always anecdotally described as), but once she left the facility around the halfway mark, the book definitely got a second wind of life and kept it all the way through the end.
All the characters, for what limited amount we saw them, I feel were written quite well - especially the kids in the psych ward. Of course we wouldn't see most of them after she was discharged, so what we did see made us feel as confused and curious as Jo was.
The relationship between Jo and her father was great to see. Him trying his best, and not knowing exactly how, to keep Jo safe is a realistic scenario many parents in this situation would feel.
And seeing Jo slowly adapt and cope, and adjust to these thoughts - was rewarding. It felt already like a hard-earned victory for her, and she sees a path to continued improvement, even if it isn't always a straight path.
Overall, this was a fantastic book!
I thought this book was an amazing read!
"Hijacked by Goats" follows Jo, a young teen, as she gets admitted to a mental hospital following a self-harm crisis. There, she gets diagnosed with OCD, and the book follows her journey of learning how to start managing it and coping.
I have read books before about characters with some mental health struggles, but I don't think I've read one before from the perspective of a young character this age where their intrusive thoughts are on such full display. It was really unique!
Around the 25% mark, it was getting a little tough to stay engaged. The day-to-day activities while she was admitted were a bit of a drag to read (perhaps that was the point, considering how much of a drag psych wards are always anecdotally described as), but once she left the facility around the halfway mark, the book definitely got a second wind of life and kept it all the way through the end.
All the characters, for what limited amount we saw them, I feel were written quite well - especially the kids in the psych ward. Of course we wouldn't see most of them after she was discharged, so what we did see made us feel as confused and curious as Jo was.
The relationship between Jo and her father was great to see. Him trying his best, and not knowing exactly how, to keep Jo safe is a realistic scenario many parents in this situation would feel.
And seeing Jo slowly adapt and cope, and adjust to these thoughts - was rewarding. It felt already like a hard-earned victory for her, and she sees a path to continued improvement, even if it isn't always a straight path.
Overall, this was a fantastic book!
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
In "Hijacked by Goats," author Ann Braden addresses a topic not often handled in middle-grade literature: psychiatric hospitalization. The book begins when twelve-year-old Josie is admitted to Bryce Haven Psychiatric Hospital after a self-harming incident. There, she is diagnosed with a less commonly known (to outsiders) form of OCD characterized by perfectionism, hyper-responsibility, and putting others before herself. Over the course of the book, Jo begins the gradual process of identifying what is “her,” and what is the bullying OCD voice that has hijacked her brain (and which is characterized as an ornery, smelly goat).
As a middle school teacher, I can confidently say: Kids need this book. Every year, one or more of my students will be hospitalized for mental health reasons; their friends are left wondering where they went and, later, how to support them. "Hijacked by Goats" gives voice to this not uncommon experience, and addresses difficult and sensitive topics–like hospitalization and self harm–deftly and without melodrama. I especially appreciated that the subject of medication, which is a part of Jo’s journey, is handled without stigma.
Even as an adult reader, I was affected by this novel; if I had wanted to highlight every sentence that I found powerful or meaningful, half the book would be neon yellow. This is Braden’s finest book yet, and I can’t wait to share it with my students.
As a middle school teacher, I can confidently say: Kids need this book. Every year, one or more of my students will be hospitalized for mental health reasons; their friends are left wondering where they went and, later, how to support them. "Hijacked by Goats" gives voice to this not uncommon experience, and addresses difficult and sensitive topics–like hospitalization and self harm–deftly and without melodrama. I especially appreciated that the subject of medication, which is a part of Jo’s journey, is handled without stigma.
Even as an adult reader, I was affected by this novel; if I had wanted to highlight every sentence that I found powerful or meaningful, half the book would be neon yellow. This is Braden’s finest book yet, and I can’t wait to share it with my students.
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.
September 11, 2026
This is a good book for schools to make available to kids as it covers a lot of important subjects, especially OCD. The, FMC, Jo, cant handle when things aren't right or when she can't fix things in her life so they way she deals with it is to cut herself, which lands her in a psychiatric hospital. While she's there, she meets some other kids dealing with various other issues and mental health illnesses. She becomes close with Phoebe, who is learning to manage her anger but has had lots of therapy so she's got good insight into mental health.
While in the hospital, Jo creates art out of trash and even makes a town for a family of ladybugs which I thought was super cool. when she gets discharged to home, she gets to their farm and learns she has to care for her dad's friend's goat. Hal, who is a stubborn Billy goat and with the help of her dad and her counselor, Jo learns that Hal can be a good metaphor for the way her brain bullies her.
I think this is a good read for those with mental health issues but also for those who may know someone or even just want to be more supportive and informed. It's written very simply and reasonably and feels like it could be a good resource.
Thanks to Nancy Paulson Books and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my review
While in the hospital, Jo creates art out of trash and even makes a town for a family of ladybugs which I thought was super cool. when she gets discharged to home, she gets to their farm and learns she has to care for her dad's friend's goat. Hal, who is a stubborn Billy goat and with the help of her dad and her counselor, Jo learns that Hal can be a good metaphor for the way her brain bullies her.
I think this is a good read for those with mental health issues but also for those who may know someone or even just want to be more supportive and informed. It's written very simply and reasonably and feels like it could be a good resource.
Thanks to Nancy Paulson Books and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my review
Review of advance copy received from Author
A deeply moving, brave, and surprisingly funny story about learning that you are not the worst thing your mind tells you you are.
Hijacked by Goats takes a difficult subject, OCD, self blame, perfectionism, and the painful weight of believing everything is somehow your fault, and turns it into a story filled with honesty, warmth, humor, and hope. Josie's journey feels especially powerful because she isn't simply learning what OCD is; she's learning to recognize that the cruel, demanding voice in her head isn't the whole of who she is.
The metaphor of OCD as a relentless bully, and the unforgettable Hal the goat, is brilliant. It gives readers a way to understand something incredibly complicated without diminishing its seriousness. Josie's gradual realization that she can push back, accept help, and begin treating herself with the same compassion she offers others is both heartbreaking and uplifting.
Ann Braden has written the kind of book that can make a young reader feel seen, while helping everyone else understand a little more. Tender, courageous, funny, and full of hard won hope, Hijacked by Goats is a story that deserves to be read, shared, and talked about.
Hijacked by Goats takes a difficult subject, OCD, self blame, perfectionism, and the painful weight of believing everything is somehow your fault, and turns it into a story filled with honesty, warmth, humor, and hope. Josie's journey feels especially powerful because she isn't simply learning what OCD is; she's learning to recognize that the cruel, demanding voice in her head isn't the whole of who she is.
The metaphor of OCD as a relentless bully, and the unforgettable Hal the goat, is brilliant. It gives readers a way to understand something incredibly complicated without diminishing its seriousness. Josie's gradual realization that she can push back, accept help, and begin treating herself with the same compassion she offers others is both heartbreaking and uplifting.
Ann Braden has written the kind of book that can make a young reader feel seen, while helping everyone else understand a little more. Tender, courageous, funny, and full of hard won hope, Hijacked by Goats is a story that deserves to be read, shared, and talked about.
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 NetGalley
Wow, another fantastic book by Ann Braden. Josie/Jo is admitted to a psychiatric hospital because her brain screams you’re horrible and that you deserve to be here. While there Jo learns if she broadens her experiences she can better understand her choices in how to respond to situations. Therapy helps her and so does a new friend, Phoebe, at the hospital. When Jo goes home, she tries medication and continues with a new therapist. When she goes to school her guidance counselor gives her some coping strategies. This book showed the fortitude and determination that Jo had and having the support of her Phoebe and dad definitely helped her. Excellent book.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the eARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the eARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Penguin Young Readers Group, Nancy Paulson Books and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this title.
Everyone deserves to see themselves in the media they consume - especially young people. Adults forget that, I think . This is the story of a tween girl struggling with an OCD diagnosis while navigating middle school. She's also lost her favorite hobby and has to pet-sit a disgruntled goat. Could you even? I think the story very deftly mixes the absurdity of day-to-day existence with the seriousness of an untreated mental health issue. I appreciate it's realistic depiction of therapy, medication, etc. It was nice to see treatment discussed as a process rather than simple cure.
Everyone deserves to see themselves in the media they consume - especially young people. Adults forget that, I think . This is the story of a tween girl struggling with an OCD diagnosis while navigating middle school. She's also lost her favorite hobby and has to pet-sit a disgruntled goat. Could you even? I think the story very deftly mixes the absurdity of day-to-day existence with the seriousness of an untreated mental health issue. I appreciate it's realistic depiction of therapy, medication, etc. It was nice to see treatment discussed as a process rather than simple cure.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another emotional and heartfelt triumph from Ann Braden! The brilliance of her storytelling is in how she finds just the right metaphors to help her characters (and her readers) understand what they’re going through - or what someone else may be going through! The image of OCD as a bullying goat will forever live in my mind and help me understand that mental illness better.
I have great admiration for authors who can pull together a strong story, with character growth and an actual plot, in under 200 pages, which Ann does consistently. She keeps the focus on her characters and what they are feeling, while still describing scenes with enough imagery to help readers visualize the story.
I look forward to reading each new book that Ann writes, knowing it is a gift from her heart to ours.
I have great admiration for authors who can pull together a strong story, with character growth and an actual plot, in under 200 pages, which Ann does consistently. She keeps the focus on her characters and what they are feeling, while still describing scenes with enough imagery to help readers visualize the story.
I look forward to reading each new book that Ann writes, knowing it is a gift from her heart to ours.
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
This book has had me hooked from the first chapter. We meet Josie in this first couple pages telling us “I’m fine. But somewhere, in some small corner of my brain, there is a tiny part of me that knows I’m not.”
Josie is a young girl struggling with OCD. As like other books that Ann has written this is a tough topic but one that will be accessible to middle school students. We get to experience the challenges of her daily life of trying to be the perfect friend, daughter, and patient. We also get to see the hope, healing and love that is a part of Josie’s story. I will be recommending this book to students and teachers this fall!
Josie is a young girl struggling with OCD. As like other books that Ann has written this is a tough topic but one that will be accessible to middle school students. We get to experience the challenges of her daily life of trying to be the perfect friend, daughter, and patient. We also get to see the hope, healing and love that is a part of Josie’s story. I will be recommending this book to students and teachers this fall!
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.
August 31, 2026
Another heart-felt middle grade novel from Ann Braden! I was excited to receive an advance reader copy of Hijacked by Goats, and it did not disappoint. I know my readers will enjoy the short chapters and honest look into the struggles of someone dealing with obsessive compulsive disorder.
Knowing the importance of mental illness and how it can affect people of all ages and everyone around them is such a valuable lesson for students. I highly recommend reading and discussing this exceptional book with all middle grade learners.
Knowing the importance of mental illness and how it can affect people of all ages and everyone around them is such a valuable lesson for students. I highly recommend reading and discussing this exceptional book with all middle grade learners.
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