Zana Fraillon (text) and Andrew Joyner (illustrator), Etta and the Octopus, Lothian Children’s Books, April 2023, 112 pp., RRP $14.99 (pbk), ISBN 9780734421685
Etta and the Octopus is a fun tale for newly independent readers who are starting to delve into chapter books on their own.
Etta is just trying to take a bath, but when there’s an enormous octopus soaking in the tub, you have to adapt and roll with it. As Etta and Octopus spend more time together, Etta begins to notice little idiosyncrasies and makes list of octopus facts. Besides liking long baths, they also don’t like to chatter and prefer to sleep alone. Also, there is certain unpleasant fishy smell. The smell, the mess, and the loss of a goldfish prompt Etta to begin thinking about where this visitor came from, who it might belong to and where else it might be able to live.
A search begins for Octopus’ owner, but Etta never suspected that the octopus might not want to return to its previous home. At one point Etta wanted to be rid of the octopus, now she’s got to find a way to be rid of a stubborn and onerous octopus owner.
Just like many successful children’s books, there are no parents or parental figures in this story, which gives Etta the chance to shine as self-determined, in-control, independent character. I was slightly disappointed that it was the Octopus that saves the day and not Etta, but the Octopus probably needed to redeem itself from all the mess and fuss it caused.
I adore Andrew Joyner’s illustrations in general, and his style brought a sense of friendly chaos to this book and they really help carry the story. Though I would have loved them to have been in colour, like in Ask Hercules Quick.
So, who is the book for? Children who have successfully and independently read series such as Billie B Brown, Ella and Olivia, Ginger Green Playdate Queen, Evie and Pog and Tiggy and the Magic Paintbrush should try Etta and the Octopus. It would also be a great one for children who recently enjoyed Marge in Charge as there is a similar amount of commotion and disturbance.
Reviewed by Cherie Bell
