Octopus Escapes Again!
Written and Illustrated by Laurie Ellen Angus
How talented is an octopus? As talented as it needs to be to survive all the predators that would love to eat it. In this informative picture book, the author follows an unnamed octopus as she works to find a meal of her own. First, her quest for shrimp is interrupted by a sea turtle. She hides inside an empty shell. When she spots some small fish, an eel is on the prowl. She escapes due to her ink. Next, a shark closes in, and she shoots away quickly. A large fish grabs one arm. The arm breaks off, and the octopus escapes again. The arm will grow back. A gull tries to get her. She uses her natural camouflage. Finally, she catches some clams for dinner.
The many animals highlighted in this tale are discussed in much more detail in the Explore More sections. In addition, the author suggests several interesting activities where kids can learn more – both about the octopus and the other animals present. Some great online videos are also mentioned.
The writing is fun and the illustrations give the “being there” feel for underwater adventures. Recommended as the focus for a stand-alone unit or as further exploration related to food chains or sea creatures.
Title: Octopus Escapes Again!- Author/Illustrator: Laurie Ellen Angus
- Publisher: Dawn Publishers, 2016
- Reviewer: Sue Poduska
- Format: Paperback, 32 pages
- Grade Level: K to 3
- Genre: Nature, Animals
- ISBN: 978-1-58469-578-3
- Extras: Explore More – For Kids, Explore More – For Teachers and Parents
