Octopus Ocean - (Orca Wild) by Mark Leiren-Young (Hardcover)

About the Book

Part of the nonfiction Orca Wild series for middle-grade readers and illustrated with color photographs throughout, this book introduces kids to octopuses all over the world. It discusses octopus habitat, biology and threats to survival, and how scientists, conservationists and young people are working to protect octopuses everywhere.

Book Synopsis

★"Vivid and fascinating...Budding scientists and animal lovers will keep this stellar title in full-circulation as they learn the mysteries and history of octopuses."--School Library Journal, starred review

With their blue blood, big brains and eight arms, octopuses are dramatically different from any other being.

Octopuses are masters of camouflage and known for their incredible escapes from tight spots. New research shows that they are highly intelligent creatures, and while they prefer to be alone, they will interact with humans and display unique personality traits.

In Octopus Ocean, discover the mysteries and histories of octopuses big and small--their biology, habitat and habits--and explore the top threats to their future, including warming oceans, over-fishing and pollution.

The epub edition of this title is fully accessible.

From the Back Cover

What has eight arms, blue blood and a big brain?

Octopuses are different from any other animal on the planet. These masters of camouflage are highly intelligent and known for their brilliant minds and unique personalities. New research shows that while most of them prefer to be alone, they can live in groups and bond with humans.

Take a deep dive into the fascinating history and mystery of octopuses big and small--their biology, habitat and habits--and discover the top threats to their future and what we can do to protect them.

Review Quotes

"Engaging and informative...The authors' enthusiasm for their subjects comes through clearly. First-rate animal nonfiction for middle school readers."

-- "School Library Journal (SLJ)"

"Mark Leiren-Young dives into the mysterious lives of these masters of camouflage and escape. [An] entertaining and informative book."

-- "BC BookWorld"

"Clear, captioned photographs, information boxes called 'Ink Spots', and accessible information will find fans keen to learn more about these fascinating creatures...Hand this book to those kids who want more information about some of the world's most interesting creatures."

-- "Sal's Fiction Addiction"

"The author is a skilled storyteller, and his playful, entertaining writing style is evident right away. Prepare to be amazed as you read the 12 short chapters that cover basic octopus physiology, intelligence, history and ancestors, life cycle and relatives...A reliable source of up-to-date information for readers to learn more and a forum to encourage them to spread the word, to help inspire others, and to take action. Highly recommended."

-- "CM: Canadian Review of Materials"

★ "[Leiren-Young's] first-person account will leave readers feeling as if they're exploring the ocean alongside him. Close-up color photographs throughout are vivid and fascinating. Budding scientists and animal lovers will keep this stellar title in full-circulation as they learn the mysteries and history of octopuses, from their biology, habitats, habits, and threats to their future."

-- "School Library Journal (SLJ), starred review"

"An unusually lively meet and greet--stimulating and informative."

-- "Kirkus Reviews"

"Thanks to My Octopus Teacher and other media, octopuses are having a moment, and thanks to this title in the Orca Wild series, middle-grade readers can understand what makes this strange animal so fascinating. The numerous color photos for different octopus species from around the world are the real attention-grabbers in this inviting and informational book."

-- "Booklist"

About the Author

Mark Leiren-Young is an award-winning author, screenwriter, playwright and filmmaker. He is the author of three books about whales for children: Orcas Everywhere: The Mystery and History of Killer Whales (which was short-listed for a Red Cedar Book Award and the Information Book Award and won the City of Victoria Children's Book Prize), Orcas of the Salish Sea and Big Whales, Small World (which were all commended as selections for the 2020 CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens). He has also written two books about sharks, including Sharks Forever: The Mystery and History of the Planet's Perfect Predator (which was commended as an Honor Book for the 2023 Green Earth Book Award) and Big Sharks, Small World. He has written TV shows for young viewers for Netflix, CBC, ABC, BBC Kids and PBS. He wrote, directed and produced the award-winning documentary The Hundred-Year-Old Whale. Mark hosts the podcast Skaana, sharing ocean stories, and is actively involved in the fight for the survival of the endangered southern resident orcas. He lives in Saanich, British Columbia.