What do you think?
Rate this book
The Octopus
Not yet published
Expected 22 Apr 26Join a little girl as she discovers the hidden world of her new octopus friend in this stunning wordless picture book by critically acclaimed author-illustrator Guojing.
A little girl goes to the beach with her mother, never expecting the day full of magic and wonder that is ahead of her. When she scoops up a tiny octopus in her small, clear container, and they see each other eye to eye, there’s a spark between them! But a little octopus cannot be happy for long in a container. So the girl sets out to discover what the octopus needs. And that’s when something truly magical happens! Soon, the little girl is on an underwater adventure with her new octopus friend, where she discovers the joy and beauty of the octopus’s world and learns how she can help take care of the ocean in her own way.
A little girl goes to the beach with her mother, never expecting the day full of magic and wonder that is ahead of her. When she scoops up a tiny octopus in her small, clear container, and they see each other eye to eye, there’s a spark between them! But a little octopus cannot be happy for long in a container. So the girl sets out to discover what the octopus needs. And that’s when something truly magical happens! Soon, the little girl is on an underwater adventure with her new octopus friend, where she discovers the joy and beauty of the octopus’s world and learns how she can help take care of the ocean in her own way.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication April 22, 2026
25 people want to read
About the author
Guojing
9 books114 followersGuojing (Jing Guo) is an illustrator and concept artist. Previously she worked in the game and animation industry. She is now a professional illustrator. Her wordless picture book, ‘The Only Child’, a New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Book of 2015, and a Publishers Weekly Book of 2015, is published by Schwartz and Wade (Random House, Dec, 2015). The story is based on her own experiences as a child. Guojing is also planning her next picture book. She also likes to paint in oils in her spare time. She loves to share her ideas and feelings through her art work.
Offical website: www.guojingart.com
(from http://www.creativeauthors.co.uk/illu...)
Offical website: www.guojingart.com
(from http://www.creativeauthors.co.uk/illu...)
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
October 17, 2025
A regular day at the beach turns into something special when a little girl comes across a tiny octopus that she scoops up into a clear container, and that's when something extraordinary happens. As the little girl tries to set the tiny octopus free into the water, she magically becomes the size of the octopus, embarking on an adventure that shows her the beauty and importance of taking care of the ocean, not only for the tiny octopus but also for all the animals that live underwater.
Oh my gosh, this was so cute! Although there isn’t a single word within the story (there is a little note by the author at the end that I highly recommend reading), the illustrations perfectly tell the story of how we should take care of our earth and get to know it a little better. ☺
The pictures really are very beautiful, and the story put a smile on my face because I know little five-year-old me would have LOVED this book! It would’ve probably been one of my favorites, lol! 😂
I definitely recommend this for the little ones in your life! 🐙❤
Thank you to Two Lions and NetGalley for the free arc! All opinions and statements are my own.
#TheOctopus #NetGalley
Oh my gosh, this was so cute! Although there isn’t a single word within the story (there is a little note by the author at the end that I highly recommend reading), the illustrations perfectly tell the story of how we should take care of our earth and get to know it a little better. ☺
The pictures really are very beautiful, and the story put a smile on my face because I know little five-year-old me would have LOVED this book! It would’ve probably been one of my favorites, lol! 😂
I definitely recommend this for the little ones in your life! 🐙❤
Thank you to Two Lions and NetGalley for the free arc! All opinions and statements are my own.
#TheOctopus #NetGalley
October 16, 2025
That’s it. Plastic is banned because I’ve just fallen in love with a tiny octopus.
Did this children's book really just hit me with the CUTEST most DARLING illustrations I have literally ever seen, show impacts of trash on marine life (in a light, child-friendly way of course) and promote recycling, all while not saying a single word?
Yes! It did.
I really don’t review children’s books but when I saw this cover and the synopsis of this, I was kind of sold. I wanted to see these pictures.
I was an ocean obsessed child (and currently still ocean obsessed), so, this speaks to me.
It really is just SO cute and meaningful.
Tons of credit to the artist, I think you have outdone yourself.
There are no children in my life for me to show this to, so I will just, stare at it myself.
Thank you to Netgalley, Two Lions and author Guojing for providing me with the eARC of “The Octopus”, in exchange for my honest review!
Publication date: April 22, 2026
Did this children's book really just hit me with the CUTEST most DARLING illustrations I have literally ever seen, show impacts of trash on marine life (in a light, child-friendly way of course) and promote recycling, all while not saying a single word?
Yes! It did.
I really don’t review children’s books but when I saw this cover and the synopsis of this, I was kind of sold. I wanted to see these pictures.
I was an ocean obsessed child (and currently still ocean obsessed), so, this speaks to me.
It really is just SO cute and meaningful.
Tons of credit to the artist, I think you have outdone yourself.
There are no children in my life for me to show this to, so I will just, stare at it myself.
Thank you to Netgalley, Two Lions and author Guojing for providing me with the eARC of “The Octopus”, in exchange for my honest review!
Publication date: April 22, 2026
November 15, 2025
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
The Octopus is an absolutely adorable picture book told through pictures with no words. The pictures are so easy to connect to and follow what is happening throughout the story, and my heart melted on every page reading this.
A little girl is at the beach with her mum when she comes across a tiny octopus entangled in some plastic. She rescues him, and when he awakes, they go on a magical adventure under the sea where she gets to see how he lives, explore, and meet other sea creatures. But the girl also sees the dangers we humans are causing sealife with our rubbish. When she goes back to land and becomes her normal size, she says goodbye to the octopus and walks the beach with her mum, picking up all the litter they can find and recycling it.
This is such a great way to teach young children about recycling, the dangers of littering, how to care for nature and the oceans, and teaches compassion and empathy too. The illustrations are the cutest I've ever seen, and I can't wait to read this author illustrators backlist of books to discover more of their amazing ability in storytelling.
The Octopus is an absolutely adorable picture book told through pictures with no words. The pictures are so easy to connect to and follow what is happening throughout the story, and my heart melted on every page reading this.
A little girl is at the beach with her mum when she comes across a tiny octopus entangled in some plastic. She rescues him, and when he awakes, they go on a magical adventure under the sea where she gets to see how he lives, explore, and meet other sea creatures. But the girl also sees the dangers we humans are causing sealife with our rubbish. When she goes back to land and becomes her normal size, she says goodbye to the octopus and walks the beach with her mum, picking up all the litter they can find and recycling it.
This is such a great way to teach young children about recycling, the dangers of littering, how to care for nature and the oceans, and teaches compassion and empathy too. The illustrations are the cutest I've ever seen, and I can't wait to read this author illustrators backlist of books to discover more of their amazing ability in storytelling.
November 1, 2025
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy
The Octopus by Guojing is a text-free picture book about the beauty and wonder of the ocean as well as the dangers of plastic. When a young girl finds and releases a small octopus, she is transformed into a tiny version of herself and can see the ocean as the octopus does. But not everything in the sea is good for the animals.
This is a very cute way to introduce environmental topics into the classroom or the home. We get so many gorgeous pictures with care and detail and then the introduction of plastic bags as something harming that beauty is subtle but effective. It looks like it's not supposed to be there. We say all the time that kids don't care about these kinds of topics, but that's because they are being preached to and taught a lesson and they can tell. I don't think that is the case for The Octopus at all. It's about appreciation of nature first instead of after we talk about the things harming it, which is a more effective method in my experience.
I would recommend this to classrooms with beginner creative writing units so students can practice conveying what they see and young readers learning about the world they inhabit
The Octopus by Guojing is a text-free picture book about the beauty and wonder of the ocean as well as the dangers of plastic. When a young girl finds and releases a small octopus, she is transformed into a tiny version of herself and can see the ocean as the octopus does. But not everything in the sea is good for the animals.
This is a very cute way to introduce environmental topics into the classroom or the home. We get so many gorgeous pictures with care and detail and then the introduction of plastic bags as something harming that beauty is subtle but effective. It looks like it's not supposed to be there. We say all the time that kids don't care about these kinds of topics, but that's because they are being preached to and taught a lesson and they can tell. I don't think that is the case for The Octopus at all. It's about appreciation of nature first instead of after we talk about the things harming it, which is a more effective method in my experience.
I would recommend this to classrooms with beginner creative writing units so students can practice conveying what they see and young readers learning about the world they inhabit
November 11, 2025
Thank you so much to Two Lions and Netgalley for the ebook to read and review.
An absolutely stunning wordless book. It takes you on a magic under water adventure with a little girl and her new octopus friend, seeing all the beautiful parts of the sea, and the realities of what damage people can cause to it.
I really enjoyed this, it felt so magical even from the beginning. I loved how she saved the little octopus and then in return it wanted to show her where he lived, sharing his magic and their joint love for shells. It was honestly such a precious book.
You don’t see many books like this anymore wordless stories, where the illustrations alone tell you the story. I’m glad this was a wordless book, it suited the story perfectly. It added so much wonder and magic to the storytelling, you could see each event as it happened, watching as the story unfolded, seeing the magic as it was happening.
The book also comes with a very important message about cleaning up after yourself on the beach, or even picking up litter if you see it. It’s very harmful for the undersea animals and I loved how it was included, shared in the correct way, but not being the only premise of the story.
An absolutely stunning wordless book. It takes you on a magic under water adventure with a little girl and her new octopus friend, seeing all the beautiful parts of the sea, and the realities of what damage people can cause to it.
I really enjoyed this, it felt so magical even from the beginning. I loved how she saved the little octopus and then in return it wanted to show her where he lived, sharing his magic and their joint love for shells. It was honestly such a precious book.
You don’t see many books like this anymore wordless stories, where the illustrations alone tell you the story. I’m glad this was a wordless book, it suited the story perfectly. It added so much wonder and magic to the storytelling, you could see each event as it happened, watching as the story unfolded, seeing the magic as it was happening.
The book also comes with a very important message about cleaning up after yourself on the beach, or even picking up litter if you see it. It’s very harmful for the undersea animals and I loved how it was included, shared in the correct way, but not being the only premise of the story.
December 4, 2025
This book was really cute. I showed the pictures of the book to my toddler to help me make my review. Despite words not being included in the book she found the pictures something to become engaged and excited over to see. Kept her entertained as we instead decided to discuss the pictures in the book that led us to have a discussion as if the book did have words.
October 17, 2025
the cover was too cute not to request the book. I’d wanna buy this just to stick it on my shelf and display. The illustrations reminded me of The Little Mermaid.
January 15, 2026
The Octopus by Guojing
Published by Two Lions
Brief Summary
In this wordless picture book, a young girl’s quiet day at the beach turns magical when she befriends a tiny octopus and is drawn into an imaginative underwater world that reveals the beauty of the ocean and the importance of caring for it.
Intended Reader & Appeal
This book is a wonderful fit for imaginative young readers, nature lovers, and children who enjoy gentle, wonder-filled stories. It’s especially appealing to kids who like to linger over pictures and create their own narratives, making it ideal for thoughtful readers and imaginative storytellers. Because it’s wordless, it also works beautifully for reluctant readers, pre-readers, and children who enjoy sharing a story with an adult.
Illustrations & Visual Storytelling
The illustrations are visually stunning—lush, vibrant, and immersive. Guojing uses rich colors and expressive imagery to guide readers through both the real world and a breathtaking underwater fantasy. The ocean scenes feel alive with movement and wonder, while quieter moments between the girl and her mother are warm and tender. The art carries the entire story effortlessly, sparking curiosity and inviting readers to slow down and explore every page.
Voice, Dialogue & Age Authenticity
Although there is no written dialogue, the characters’ emotions and actions feel completely authentic to a young child’s experience. The girl’s curiosity, empathy, and sense of responsibility unfold naturally through her expressions and choices, making her relatable and believable for young readers.
Themes & Discussion Opportunities
This book offers rich opportunities for discussion around imagination, empathy, environmental stewardship, and the relationship between parent and child. It gently introduces the idea that loving nature also means caring for it, making it an excellent springboard for conversations about ocean life, conservation, and respecting animals in their natural habitats.
Recommended Age Range
Best suited for ages 4–8. The visual storytelling is accessible for younger children, while older readers will appreciate the nuance, emotion, and layered meaning in the illustrations. It works well as a read-aloud, a quiet independent “reading” experience, or a shared storytelling activity.
Comparable Titles
Fans of Guojing’s The Only Child or wordless picture books like Journey by Aaron Becker will find much to love here. It’s also a great choice for readers who enjoy visually driven, imaginative stories with gentle emotional depth.
Final Thoughts
The Octopus is a beautifully crafted, wordless picture book that celebrates imagination, connection, and care for the natural world. Visually captivating and emotionally resonant, it’s a standout choice for families, classrooms, and libraries looking for a story that invites wonder and meaningful conversation long after the final page.
I received a complimentary e-copy and was under no obligation to leave a positive review.
Published by Two Lions
Brief Summary
In this wordless picture book, a young girl’s quiet day at the beach turns magical when she befriends a tiny octopus and is drawn into an imaginative underwater world that reveals the beauty of the ocean and the importance of caring for it.
Intended Reader & Appeal
This book is a wonderful fit for imaginative young readers, nature lovers, and children who enjoy gentle, wonder-filled stories. It’s especially appealing to kids who like to linger over pictures and create their own narratives, making it ideal for thoughtful readers and imaginative storytellers. Because it’s wordless, it also works beautifully for reluctant readers, pre-readers, and children who enjoy sharing a story with an adult.
Illustrations & Visual Storytelling
The illustrations are visually stunning—lush, vibrant, and immersive. Guojing uses rich colors and expressive imagery to guide readers through both the real world and a breathtaking underwater fantasy. The ocean scenes feel alive with movement and wonder, while quieter moments between the girl and her mother are warm and tender. The art carries the entire story effortlessly, sparking curiosity and inviting readers to slow down and explore every page.
Voice, Dialogue & Age Authenticity
Although there is no written dialogue, the characters’ emotions and actions feel completely authentic to a young child’s experience. The girl’s curiosity, empathy, and sense of responsibility unfold naturally through her expressions and choices, making her relatable and believable for young readers.
Themes & Discussion Opportunities
This book offers rich opportunities for discussion around imagination, empathy, environmental stewardship, and the relationship between parent and child. It gently introduces the idea that loving nature also means caring for it, making it an excellent springboard for conversations about ocean life, conservation, and respecting animals in their natural habitats.
Recommended Age Range
Best suited for ages 4–8. The visual storytelling is accessible for younger children, while older readers will appreciate the nuance, emotion, and layered meaning in the illustrations. It works well as a read-aloud, a quiet independent “reading” experience, or a shared storytelling activity.
Comparable Titles
Fans of Guojing’s The Only Child or wordless picture books like Journey by Aaron Becker will find much to love here. It’s also a great choice for readers who enjoy visually driven, imaginative stories with gentle emotional depth.
Final Thoughts
The Octopus is a beautifully crafted, wordless picture book that celebrates imagination, connection, and care for the natural world. Visually captivating and emotionally resonant, it’s a standout choice for families, classrooms, and libraries looking for a story that invites wonder and meaningful conversation long after the final page.
I received a complimentary e-copy and was under no obligation to leave a positive review.
October 24, 2025
Four Point Five Stars
Beautiful, profound story. The story had no words, but the illustrations are beautiful and tell the story of a little girl who goes to a beach and there she finds a magical octopus. What starts as a simple journey to find a home for the octopus, turns into something deep as the little girl learns about how plastic (and other human activities) affect marine life. Beautiful book both for adults and older kids.
Thank you for the eARC Netgalley.
Beautiful, profound story. The story had no words, but the illustrations are beautiful and tell the story of a little girl who goes to a beach and there she finds a magical octopus. What starts as a simple journey to find a home for the octopus, turns into something deep as the little girl learns about how plastic (and other human activities) affect marine life. Beautiful book both for adults and older kids.
Thank you for the eARC Netgalley.
October 22, 2025
A delightful children’s book about a trip to the seashore that turns into an adventure with an octopus. There are no words with the story so it allows the reader to create their own story. It has several illustrations on each page similar to a magna book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Both kids ADORED this book!
Overall: 5⭐
Plot/Lesson:° NA/5📍
Smiles: 4😁
Illustrations: 5🖌️
Suggested Ages:
Read To: NA
Read By: Anyone with words
Re-read Requests: 3+
Mom's Review:
This story... Wow! For anyone who grew up a fan of the "Good Dog, Carl" series by Alexandra Day, this is for you! Gorgeous, experience drawings, despite having no words, a clear story line.
While I always worry in this day and age about AI drawings scraping real artists work, these looked authentic-ly created. Almost as if done by colored pencil.
This has quickly become a new favorite during reading- and bed-times.
”A's” Review:
I LOVED coming up with stories for all these pretty pictures! I get to make up a new story every time. I really loved the part when the little girl [goes on an adventure].
”C's” Review:
The girl looks like she's my age and we could be friends! I wish I could go with her and play with the cute baby Octopus. "A" and I had so much fun coming up with different adventures for the little girl and the octopus! I love reading this book!
Thank you to Guojing, Two Lions, & NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book!
All opinions are our own.
NOTES:
° = Our Plot/Lesson rating is how well the kiddos picked up on the morals/lessons learned or well received the facts were.
^ = A, read at a 3rd grade level, voracious reader
* = C, knows her letters, and memorizes stories well!
**There might be a few little plot reveals edited to a [generic description in brackets] to keep the surprise. :)
“Quotes”I paraphrase the kids’ opinions 90% of the time, but will call out their direct quotes.
Overall: 5⭐
Plot/Lesson:° NA/5📍
Smiles: 4😁
Illustrations: 5🖌️
Suggested Ages:
Read To: NA
Read By: Anyone with words
Re-read Requests: 3+
Mom's Review:
This story... Wow! For anyone who grew up a fan of the "Good Dog, Carl" series by Alexandra Day, this is for you! Gorgeous, experience drawings, despite having no words, a clear story line.
While I always worry in this day and age about AI drawings scraping real artists work, these looked authentic-ly created. Almost as if done by colored pencil.
This has quickly become a new favorite during reading- and bed-times.
”A's” Review:
I LOVED coming up with stories for all these pretty pictures! I get to make up a new story every time. I really loved the part when the little girl [goes on an adventure].
”C's” Review:
The girl looks like she's my age and we could be friends! I wish I could go with her and play with the cute baby Octopus. "A" and I had so much fun coming up with different adventures for the little girl and the octopus! I love reading this book!
Thank you to Guojing, Two Lions, & NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book!
All opinions are our own.
NOTES:
° = Our Plot/Lesson rating is how well the kiddos picked up on the morals/lessons learned or well received the facts were.
^ = A, read at a 3rd grade level, voracious reader
* = C, knows her letters, and memorizes stories well!
**There might be a few little plot reveals edited to a [generic description in brackets] to keep the surprise. :)
“Quotes”I paraphrase the kids’ opinions 90% of the time, but will call out their direct quotes.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A day at the beach becomes a fantastic adventure for one girl who chooses to help a friend in need. When a young girl and her mother are collecting seashells together, the girl stumbles upon a small octopus who has been caught up in discarded plastic soda can rings. After freeing the small creature, an unexpected interaction invites the child into the ocean’s embrace. Together, the child and the octopus explore the undersea world, learning about both the ocean’s innate beauty and the caution required in order for all life to thrive. This wordless picture book uses images alone to tell a rich and important story celebrating the majesty of the natural world while cautioning against its destruction. Soft textures and pastel hues elegantly capture the natural beauty of the seashore, and readers of all ages will fall into the whimsical world of this story. By using frames, thoughtful placement, and clever design, the author guides the reader’s eye from one moment to the next without the need for words. This presentation invites readers to create stories of their own based on the guidance provided by the illustrations. At the end of the book, an author’s note and octopus facts are included to provide a memorable support for the story. At once a heartfelt exploration of kinship between humans and the natural world and a reminder of nature’s fragility, this story encourages readers to do their part to preserve the environment and cultivate a love of the earth’s creatures. This is a powerful addition to library collections serving young children and their families.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
As soon as I saw this sweet book on NetGalley with that beautiful cover, I knew I wanted to request it immediately. I’ve never requested a children’s book before on NetGalley, and I’m so glad this happened to be my first!!
THE OCTOPUS by Guojing is an enchanting, magical, and poignant story about a young girl who happens upon a baby octopus (in distress as it we quickly learn) while at the beach, and the book has completely stolen my heart. They say that a picture is worth a thousand words, and this is truly the case with this gem of a book, for there are no words, only illustrations. The story unfolds through what I believe to be some of the most beautiful artwork I’ve ever seen in a book.
I feel that this will be one of the most loved and anticipated children’s books of the year, especially given the touching storytelling and important message it conveys. We are reminded that our carelessness and apathy with regard to nature and all living creatures we share this world with have far-reaching and serious consequences. And our love and care for the environment—its oceans, its animals, its everything—begin at home! I cannot recommend this charming book highly enough.
I want to thank NetGalley, Guojing, and Two Lions for gifting me the ARC of THE OCTOPUS. I truly appreciate you trusting me with an honest review!
THE OCTOPUS by Guojing is an enchanting, magical, and poignant story about a young girl who happens upon a baby octopus (in distress as it we quickly learn) while at the beach, and the book has completely stolen my heart. They say that a picture is worth a thousand words, and this is truly the case with this gem of a book, for there are no words, only illustrations. The story unfolds through what I believe to be some of the most beautiful artwork I’ve ever seen in a book.
I feel that this will be one of the most loved and anticipated children’s books of the year, especially given the touching storytelling and important message it conveys. We are reminded that our carelessness and apathy with regard to nature and all living creatures we share this world with have far-reaching and serious consequences. And our love and care for the environment—its oceans, its animals, its everything—begin at home! I cannot recommend this charming book highly enough.
I want to thank NetGalley, Guojing, and Two Lions for gifting me the ARC of THE OCTOPUS. I truly appreciate you trusting me with an honest review!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
It is a rare talent to be able to craft a beautiful and heartfelt story without using any words. This is exactly what Guojing was able to do with The Octopus. The vivid illustrations bring the story to life, allowing the observer to travel through the storyline with the characters in it. I am truly at a loss of words.
This story sends a powerful message of treating our planet and everything on it with kindness. It shows the courage of a young girl, trying to do what’s right, and giving new life to a world we don’t always see through the eyes of the animals that live there. The author perfectly captivates attention with this, and it is a thought provoking story that is perfect for people of all ages.
I particularly loved the author’s notes at the end. They are perfect to promote a class discussion (or regular book discussion) about the contents of the book and how it relates to our world now. This is a picture book I would highly recommend to people of all ages, especially if you have a soft spot for animals and a pinch of magic.
Thank you NetGalley and Two Lions for giving me an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This story sends a powerful message of treating our planet and everything on it with kindness. It shows the courage of a young girl, trying to do what’s right, and giving new life to a world we don’t always see through the eyes of the animals that live there. The author perfectly captivates attention with this, and it is a thought provoking story that is perfect for people of all ages.
I particularly loved the author’s notes at the end. They are perfect to promote a class discussion (or regular book discussion) about the contents of the book and how it relates to our world now. This is a picture book I would highly recommend to people of all ages, especially if you have a soft spot for animals and a pinch of magic.
Thank you NetGalley and Two Lions for giving me an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 16, 2025
Thank you to Guojing, Two Lions and NetGalley for a copy of *The Octopus* in exchange for my honest review🐙🌊💜
Publication date: April 22, 2026🗓
When I saw the cover and description of this book, I knew we had to see the pictures and story inside. This was my first Guojing book and I will definitely be checking out her books with my family.
The Octopus is a wonderful and absolutely adorable book! The illustrations are whimsical and done with such perfection that the story and message come through without a single word. There's so much emotion and it speaks loudly of kindness, connection and how our everyday choices affect marine life. The details in the illustrations are amazing!
The story is sweet, thoughtful and quietly impactful, with a message that is so important! Ocean conservation, beach cleanups and marine animals are a big topic in our family, so this was a perfect read for us and one we will be buying to have on our shelf when it's published💜🌊🐙
Publication date: April 22, 2026🗓
When I saw the cover and description of this book, I knew we had to see the pictures and story inside. This was my first Guojing book and I will definitely be checking out her books with my family.
The Octopus is a wonderful and absolutely adorable book! The illustrations are whimsical and done with such perfection that the story and message come through without a single word. There's so much emotion and it speaks loudly of kindness, connection and how our everyday choices affect marine life. The details in the illustrations are amazing!
The story is sweet, thoughtful and quietly impactful, with a message that is so important! Ocean conservation, beach cleanups and marine animals are a big topic in our family, so this was a perfect read for us and one we will be buying to have on our shelf when it's published💜🌊🐙
October 24, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and Two Lions for the opportunity of reading this book!
Such a sweet educational story which addresses the current concern that is trash affecting ocean creature's lil lives. No words were needed to transmit everything the author wanted to, although I think a wordless story would also work as motivation for talking children who read this to create dialogues and narration by themselves. I know my yapper and animal lover little self would've enjoyed this story so much. The illustrations are absolutely stunning, there are no words to describe the level of detail the include, and the colour palette is not oversaturated at all, which guarantees that children will not be overly stimulated by everything.
I need everyone to gather at the beach and start cleaning up so no lil octopus, fish or sea turtle will be bothered by all the trash that ends up there!!!
Such a sweet educational story which addresses the current concern that is trash affecting ocean creature's lil lives. No words were needed to transmit everything the author wanted to, although I think a wordless story would also work as motivation for talking children who read this to create dialogues and narration by themselves. I know my yapper and animal lover little self would've enjoyed this story so much. The illustrations are absolutely stunning, there are no words to describe the level of detail the include, and the colour palette is not oversaturated at all, which guarantees that children will not be overly stimulated by everything.
I need everyone to gather at the beach and start cleaning up so no lil octopus, fish or sea turtle will be bothered by all the trash that ends up there!!!
October 30, 2025
As a writer myself, the concept of a book without words was intriguing. What the children's book The Octopus by Guojing reminded me of was the old adage "a picture is worth a thousand words'. This book proves the wisdom of those words, with gorgeous illustrations that tell a wonderful story without one word needed.
Not only does the little girl in the wordless story learn all about the habitat of her new friend the octopus, but she discovers the threat that habitat is under from human activity. And in the end, she is determined to do something about it. It's a lesson all of us, children and adult alike, need to learn.
The beauty of the illustrations is stunning, and with each trip through the book, new details spring out at you.
I'm happy to have received an ARC of #TheOctopus through #NetGalley.
Not only does the little girl in the wordless story learn all about the habitat of her new friend the octopus, but she discovers the threat that habitat is under from human activity. And in the end, she is determined to do something about it. It's a lesson all of us, children and adult alike, need to learn.
The beauty of the illustrations is stunning, and with each trip through the book, new details spring out at you.
I'm happy to have received an ARC of #TheOctopus through #NetGalley.
November 7, 2025
"The Octopus" is a beautifully illustrated, wordless picture book that invites readers to dive into imagination and empathy. Through expressive art alone, Guojing tells the story of a young girl who dreams up gentle adventures with an octopus. As it is revealed at the end of the book, these moments never truly happen. They are the workings of a creative imagination belonging to a young child. The book carries a quiet message about caring for the earth and its creatures, showing how small acts of kindness and environmental care can ripple outward. It's a unique experience to follow a story told entirely through images and it left me reflecting on connection, imagination and the beauty of protecting our world.
Highly recommend this one for our young readers (or image seekers!).
Thank you, Netgalley, for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Highly recommend this one for our young readers (or image seekers!).
Thank you, Netgalley, for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a visually striking book characterized by soothing illustrations and a neutral palette. The use of muted greens, blues, and light browns—interspersed with pops of red—creates a sense of tranquility.
One of my favorite features is the wordless comic-book layout. This design is ideal for older toddlers, as it encourages independent "reading" and narrative comprehension without the barrier of text. My 3 1/2 year old is particularly drawn to this format; it allows him to engage with the visual storytelling independently, building confidence in his ability to follow a story.
I also appreciated the atmospheric shift in the color palette; as the story progresses, the tones gradually warm, culminating in a beautiful, glowing sunset that provides a sense of closure.
This review is based on an ARC provided by Two Lions via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
One of my favorite features is the wordless comic-book layout. This design is ideal for older toddlers, as it encourages independent "reading" and narrative comprehension without the barrier of text. My 3 1/2 year old is particularly drawn to this format; it allows him to engage with the visual storytelling independently, building confidence in his ability to follow a story.
I also appreciated the atmospheric shift in the color palette; as the story progresses, the tones gradually warm, culminating in a beautiful, glowing sunset that provides a sense of closure.
This review is based on an ARC provided by Two Lions via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
October 21, 2025
Absolutely gorgeous picture book, a few of the panels are so stunning I wish I could buy full size prints.
I read this my kid (currently 5 years old, just starting to learn to read) and they loved that they could use their own words to tell the story. One of their favorite things to do is walk along the shore, collect shells, and take care of garbage to 'take care of earth'. They have such an active imagination, they told me that the next time we're at the beach they hope to find a magic shell that'll let them communicate and swim with the animals safely.
I've already added this to our TBR - purchase list to add the physical book to our shelves (and will be buying copies as gifts).
I read this my kid (currently 5 years old, just starting to learn to read) and they loved that they could use their own words to tell the story. One of their favorite things to do is walk along the shore, collect shells, and take care of garbage to 'take care of earth'. They have such an active imagination, they told me that the next time we're at the beach they hope to find a magic shell that'll let them communicate and swim with the animals safely.
I've already added this to our TBR - purchase list to add the physical book to our shelves (and will be buying copies as gifts).
December 3, 2025
Leave it to a beautiful little childrens book with no words to make me tear up! This was a profoundly important message for everyone not just kids. A couple weeks ago I pulled a plastic piece off a six pack of soda and I cut it all up so it wouldn’t harm any ocean wildlife. To discover this book shortly after my thoughts means a lot to me. The story follows a little girl and her mother at the beach when she discovers a tiny octopus caught in the plastic rings. She sets him free and the octopus takes her on an adventure under the sea. This has zero words and doesn’t need them. The illustrations are stunning and very descriptive. This was a definite 10/10. Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the chance to read an eARC in exchange for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Let's start by saying that I'm COMPLETELY in love with the drawing style and the fact that the story takes place at sea, featuring its creatures, is the best premise of all. Come on, let's take a look at that gorgeous cover... Now, imagine the inside!
Within the pages the magic unfolds even without dialogues and the story reaches the heart perfectly. The core message is about protecting the ecosystem but it's not told the old way: it's shown through a mesmerizing adventure at sea with the most cute but unusual friend.
The way I felt reading is difficult to put into words; I can just say it was a magical journey, like I was underwater with them, feeling at peace.
I can't wait to buy a physical copy for myself <3
Within the pages the magic unfolds even without dialogues and the story reaches the heart perfectly. The core message is about protecting the ecosystem but it's not told the old way: it's shown through a mesmerizing adventure at sea with the most cute but unusual friend.
The way I felt reading is difficult to put into words; I can just say it was a magical journey, like I was underwater with them, feeling at peace.
I can't wait to buy a physical copy for myself <3
November 21, 2025
I’ve never seen a book advocate for a cause so powerfully, yet so quietly - like the quiet disappointment radiating from my mother at a grade A - without saying a single word, the way The Octopus does.
The illustrations are gorgeous, each page soaked with love and warmth, capturing both the playful innocence of a child and the bleak future facing marine animals if we don’t care for them. The moments shared between the two are so precious that, even though I’m terrified of water, I suddenly want to take up scuba diving and photograph baby octopuses. Instead of telling readers what to do, the book shows the reality visually—taking up space where it should and actively demanding action.
This is my first book by Guojing, and I know it won’t be my last.
Heartfelt gratitude to Guojing, Two Lions, and NetGalley for the review copy!
The illustrations are gorgeous, each page soaked with love and warmth, capturing both the playful innocence of a child and the bleak future facing marine animals if we don’t care for them. The moments shared between the two are so precious that, even though I’m terrified of water, I suddenly want to take up scuba diving and photograph baby octopuses. Instead of telling readers what to do, the book shows the reality visually—taking up space where it should and actively demanding action.
This is my first book by Guojing, and I know it won’t be my last.
Heartfelt gratitude to Guojing, Two Lions, and NetGalley for the review copy!
December 8, 2025
I thought that this book was wonderful and even though there are no words, it tells a powerful story that children can conjure up with their imagination.
When my daughter first started to read she was given picture books with no words so that she could look at the illustrations and make up her own story - they were never anywhere as nice as this book and it would be an amazing addition to the bookcase of any young reader or primary school.
The illustrations are so easy to follow and you can easily understand what is happening. It is all really well done - it is 5 stars from me for this one without any hesitation - very highly recommended!
When my daughter first started to read she was given picture books with no words so that she could look at the illustrations and make up her own story - they were never anywhere as nice as this book and it would be an amazing addition to the bookcase of any young reader or primary school.
The illustrations are so easy to follow and you can easily understand what is happening. It is all really well done - it is 5 stars from me for this one without any hesitation - very highly recommended!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Octopus might not use a single word, but wow does it tell a story. It’s all about helping someone out when they’re struggling, being brave enough to explore new places, and noticing all the little bits of magic hiding in nature. It even gives a gentle nudge about taking care of our planet—which feels extra important right now for all of us (humans and otherwise!).
The art is soft and dreamy, with such perfect colors, and the little facial expressions honestly say everything. It’s full of wonder and whimsy and just feels… kind. This is a sweet, sweet, sweet book, and honestly? Every little kid deserves a moment with it.
The art is soft and dreamy, with such perfect colors, and the little facial expressions honestly say everything. It’s full of wonder and whimsy and just feels… kind. This is a sweet, sweet, sweet book, and honestly? Every little kid deserves a moment with it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Although this book does not have words in it, I think it speaks volume. I think it also has a subtle message where not every beautiful thing needs to be kept; sometimes you have to let go. In this book, the girl found an octopus strayed far away from home. She’d wanted to preserve it in a bowl, but she found out that the octopus was not happy there. So, the girl tried to find another way, and the octopus showed her the way.
This book also provides facts about octopus at the end of it, so children could learn while also learning about the strong message implied from this book. A 5 stars from me!
This book also provides facts about octopus at the end of it, so children could learn while also learning about the strong message implied from this book. A 5 stars from me!
October 20, 2025
Well, I can’t say I had “getting choked up over a children’s picture book about an octopus” on my bingo card for today, but here we are.
The Octopus is beautifully illustrated and the story is wonderful.
I did my senior project at university on the importance picture books play in the development of young children and created a picture book of my own so I can say, from experience, that illustrating a coherent, engaging story in pictures is a task in itself and this darling book delivered beyond all expectations.
Do yourself a favor and get this wonderful book for your littlies. 💕
The Octopus is beautifully illustrated and the story is wonderful.
I did my senior project at university on the importance picture books play in the development of young children and created a picture book of my own so I can say, from experience, that illustrating a coherent, engaging story in pictures is a task in itself and this darling book delivered beyond all expectations.
Do yourself a favor and get this wonderful book for your littlies. 💕
October 20, 2025
I received a free ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This was such a beautiful story of compassion and kindness shown entirely in pictures. The illustrations are magical and will draw children in. This book allows children to interpret the story in their own way and I love that the author includes a not about the story sharing some octopus facts at the very end and reminding kids that in real life they wouldn’t be able to touch the octopus as they might scare it.
Truly a beautiful story for caregivers and children of all ages.
This was such a beautiful story of compassion and kindness shown entirely in pictures. The illustrations are magical and will draw children in. This book allows children to interpret the story in their own way and I love that the author includes a not about the story sharing some octopus facts at the very end and reminding kids that in real life they wouldn’t be able to touch the octopus as they might scare it.
Truly a beautiful story for caregivers and children of all ages.
November 16, 2025
A welcome return to the picture book realm of Guojing, who so excellently executes another wordless wonder. A nautical fantasy showing a child the breadth and depth of the underwater world, with a gentle unexpected ending about why pollution puts the sea dwelling creatures at risk, and a tiny call to action. Were that not enough, a friendly chart of Octopus facts rounds out the conclusion of a story. Likely to summon minds to question and wonder; hearts to empathize and organize for change. Another brilliant addition to the Guojing collection, I can't wait for whatever is next!
November 26, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC!
This was a BEAUTIFUL book about a little girl taking a trip to the beach, seeing a super tiny octopus, becoming its friend, and then travelling to the bottom of the ocean together, experiencing wonder at the beauty of our natural world, and simultaneously learning about plastic pollution in a way appropriate to young readers. It ALSO has octopus fun facts at the end! The fact that this book is wordless and thus not bound by linguistic boundaries makes me want to recommend it to like, literally everyone I know.
This was a BEAUTIFUL book about a little girl taking a trip to the beach, seeing a super tiny octopus, becoming its friend, and then travelling to the bottom of the ocean together, experiencing wonder at the beauty of our natural world, and simultaneously learning about plastic pollution in a way appropriate to young readers. It ALSO has octopus fun facts at the end! The fact that this book is wordless and thus not bound by linguistic boundaries makes me want to recommend it to like, literally everyone I know.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews