Katherine Applegate (text) and Charles Santoso (illustrator), Odder: An Otter’s story, University of Queensland Press, April 2025, 40 pp., RRP $24.99 (hbk), ISBN 9780702269158
Picture books showcasing our precious natural world are having a moment. There is something about the art form which allows creators to shine a light on environmental issues without being didactic. A case in point is Odder – a picture book adaptation of bestselling author Katherine Applegate’s verse novel of the same name.
The story focuses on a baby otter who loses her mother and is rescued by humans. When the baby is later released back into the wild, she’s injured by a shark and rescued again. While Odder is no longer able to return to the wild, she takes up residence at a marine conservation centre where she acts as a mentor to other rescued otters.
Teachers should note that, perhaps because it is adapted from a longer work, this book has a higher word count than the average picture book. It’s aimed at older students who will likely enjoy the poetic writing. From the opening spread:
Her mother holds her close,
like a pillow with a heartbeat
but even in her sleep, Odder is restless,
her front paws dream-busy,
small and soft as a baby’s mittens.
And it is duly complimented by Santoso’s artwork which is wrought in dreamy watercolours.
This story would make a great jumping off point for older primary children studying endangered animals. The book includes background information about the real ‘Odder’ and teacher’s notes are available here.
Highly recommended.
Reviewed by Heather Gallagher
