The Octopus: Phantom of the Sea

by Mary M. Cerullo

Describes the physical characteristics, feeding and mating habits, and defense mechanisms of octopuses, and gives information about other cephalopods, including the squid, the cuttlefish, and the chambered nautilus

Genres: Nonfiction, Education, Animals

64 pages, Hardcover

First published February 1, 1997

Reviews

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This 1997 former library book was donated to my Little Free Library Shed. Since I have seen the documentary on Netflix, “My Octopus Teacher,” I have been fascinated to learn about them. And of course, there have been many lovely fiction stories also written about them, too. One of my favorite being, “Remarkably Bright Creatures” by Shelby Van Pelt.

I have also enjoyed the stories by Sy Montgomery, “Secrets of the Octopus” and “The Soul of an Octopus.”

So, when this was dropped off, I was interested in reading and reviewing it, as well.

The photographs by Jeffrey L. Rottman are stunning, and provide young readers an opportunity to appreciate what is being said about this amazing sea creature. The author also provides a glossary and a bibliography at the back of the book for further information.

The book is informative and thoughtful in providing great background on the brilliance of octopi. This would make a great teaching book for young readers.

Age Level: 9 – 12 years – Grade Level: 4th – 6th

[Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite books as a kid...great information and lots of beautiful photos!