3 stars
The thing I found most fascinating about this book is that it is based on actual facts about octopuses. Lachenmeyer took actual traits of this wondrous creature and tied them together in a fun picture book about a runaway octopus.
Cute illustrations. I liked the cartooniness of them and think this would appeal to young children. There is also a descent amount of havoc that ensures, which is always a draw for kids.
Nice rhyming text that is simple yet fun. Love the use of various verbs to narrate the octopus’ actions.
At the end of the book, there is a one-page description of some of the traits of octopuses (plus the author clearly has done his research since he refers to them by the correct label “octopuses” rather than the often incorrectly used “octopi”). Great learning opportunity to tie into the story. So many of the octopus’ traits seem like pure fantasy so it is a fun way to show kids how amazing the octopus actual is.
I read this with one of the little girls I work with and she enjoyed it. She immediately wanted to act out the story, which is usually a sign that it is a good read.