This Librarian's Quick Picks: The Octopus Scientists

The Octopus Scientists: Exploring the Mind of a Mollusk
by Sy Mongomery
illustrations by Keith Ellenbogen
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (May 26, 2015)
Narrative Nonfiction

Summary:

Explores the octopus, discussing how it changes colors, how their behavior can reveal the health of the worlds oceans, and more, as well as the work of scientists to learn more about it. 
 
Why You'll Love It:

• The text includes tantalizing tidbits and facts. For example, did you know that an octopus can “pour” itself through a hole the size of a thimble, drill through seashells with its tongue, squirt ink, and paralyze its prey with venom?
• The photographs are stunning and engaging, making the reader feel they're right there with the colorful marine life.
• Author Montgomery doesn't sugarcoat the very hands-on research process involved in writing this book. She describes how physically uncomfortable some of the experiences were and how sometimes long hours of research can yield little results.  

Who Should Read It:

Great for grades 5-up...and here's an interview with author Sy Montgomery featured on Time for Kids.

What Else You Should Read: 

• Sea Turtle Scientist by Stephen R. Swinburne
• The Dolphins of Shark Bay by Pamela S. Turner
• Giant Pacific Octopus by Leon Gray