ReviewsA #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER! A Publishers Weekly bestseller A #1 Indie Bestseller! A 2023 Notable Verse Novel, National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) An Amazon Best Book of 2022 "Applegate's Odder will win your heart." -- The New York Times " Applegate uses strands of nonfiction detail to anchor and give stability to Odder's fictional story, much as sea otters use lengths of kelp to hold themselves in place while they sleep. Charles Santoso's endearing black-and-white illustrations, meanwhile, add to the buoyancy of this accessible and informative story." -- The Wall Street Journal "Writing in exquisitely descriptive free verse, Applegate delivers an uplifting tale of an inquisitive sea otter pup raised by scientists after being separated from her mother. ...Though humans make cameo appearances...the focus remains rightfully on its enigmatic star: a lovable otter who not only survives against the odds but thrives." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review "Based on the Monterey Bay Aquarium and its otter rescue and fostering program, this gorgeous story is told in flowing free verse that slips by as silkily as an otter in water. ... Told almost entirely from Odder's perspective, imparting dreamy observations of the natural and human worlds from an animal's point of view. Handsome black-and-white illustrations...punctuate the verses... A stunning study of a remarkable and resilient sea creature." -- Booklist, starred review "Soft, black-and-white illustrations dot Odder's story, enhancing readers' emotional connections to a captivating tale about life's existential balance between survival and play." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (BCCB), starred review " The free verse effortlessly weaves in scientific information, giving Odder a voice without overly anthropomorphizing any of the animals. The natural appeal of sea otters will draw readers in, but the book doesn't shy away from real-world threats such as predators, disease, and pollution.... Charming black-and-white spot art captures the world and life of the sea." -- Kirkus Reviews "This book will appeal to animal lovers and anyone who feels a little stifled by convention. Hand this to middle grade fans of marine biology, authors like Sharon Creech and Eliot Schrefer, and Applegate's Newbery-winning The One and Only Ivan. " -- School Library Journal "Applegate's text is absorbing, her spotlight on the animals' nature and emotions powerful....Charles Santoso sensitively details his realistic, curvilinear black-and-white illustrations. Santoso's superb spot art and the extensive author's note add much to this stellar presentation." --Shelf Awareness, starred review "[V]ery accessible and appealing to young animal lovers." -- The Horn Book Magazine, A #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER! A Publishers Weekly bestseller A #1 Indie Bestseller! A 2023 Notable Verse Novel, National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) An Amazon Best Book of 2022 Parents Magazine Best Book of 2022 A 2022 Blue Ribbon List selection "Applegate's Odder will win your heart." -- The New York Times " Applegate uses strands of nonfiction detail to anchor and give stability to Odder's fictional story, much as sea otters use lengths of kelp to hold themselves in place while they sleep. Charles Santoso's endearing black-and-white illustrations, meanwhile, add to the buoyancy of this accessible and informative story." -- The Wall Street Journal "Writing in exquisitely descriptive free verse, Applegate delivers an uplifting tale of an inquisitive sea otter pup raised by scientists after being separated from her mother. ...Though humans make cameo appearances...the focus remains rightfully on its enigmatic star: a lovable otter who not only survives against the odds but thrives." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review "Based on the Monterey Bay Aquarium and its otter rescue and fostering program, this gorgeous story is told in flowing free verse that slips by as silkily as an otter in water. ... Told almost entirely from Odder's perspective, imparting dreamy observations of the natural and human worlds from an animal's point of view. Handsome black-and-white illustrations...punctuate the verses... A stunning study of a remarkable and resilient sea creature." -- Booklist, starred review "Soft, black-and-white illustrations dot Odder's story, enhancing readers' emotional connections to a captivating tale about life's existential balance between survival and play." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (BCCB), starred review " The free verse effortlessly weaves in scientific information, giving Odder a voice without overly anthropomorphizing any of the animals. The natural appeal of sea otters will draw readers in, but the book doesn't shy away from real-world threats such as predators, disease, and pollution.... Charming black-and-white spot art captures the world and life of the sea." -- Kirkus Reviews "This book will appeal to animal lovers and anyone who feels a little stifled by convention. Hand this to middle grade fans of marine biology, authors like Sharon Creech and Eliot Schrefer, and Applegate's Newbery-winning The One and Only Ivan. " -- School Library Journal "Applegate's text is absorbing, her spotlight on the animals' nature and emotions powerful....Charles Santoso sensitively details his realistic, curvilinear black-and-white illustrations. Santoso's superb spot art and the extensive author's note add much to this stellar presentation." --Shelf Awareness, starred review "[V]ery accessible and appealing to young animal lovers." -- The Horn Book Magazine, "Writing in exquisitely descriptive free verse, Applegate delivers an uplifting tale of an inquisitive sea otter pup raised by scientists after being separated from her mother. ...Though humans make cameo appearances...the focus remains rightfully on its enigmatic star: a lovable otter who not only survives against the odds but thrives." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review "Based on the Monterey Bay Aquarium and its otter rescue and fostering program, this gorgeous story is told in flowing free verse that slips by as silkily as an otter in water. ... Told almost entirely from Odder's perspective, imparting dreamy observations of the natural and human worlds from an animal's point of view. Handsome black-and-white illustrations...punctuate the verses... A stunning study of a remarkable and resilient sea creature." -- Booklist, starred review " The free verse effortlessly weaves in scientific information, giving Odder a voice without overly anthropomorphizing any of the animals. The natural appeal of sea otters will draw readers in, but the book doesn't shy away from real-world threats such as predators, disease, and pollution.... Charming black-and-white spot art captures the world and life of the sea." -- Kirkus Reviews, A #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER! A Publishers Weekly bestseller A #1 Indie Bestseller! A 2023 Notable Verse Novel, National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) An Amazon Best Book of 2022 Parents Magazine Best Book of 2022 A 2022 Blue Ribbon List selection 2022-2023 Vermont Golden Dome Book Award Master List Evanston Public Library 2022 Blueberry Fiction Honor Title "Applegate's Odder will win your heart." -- The New York Times " Applegate uses strands of nonfiction detail to anchor and give stability to Odder's fictional story, much as sea otters use lengths of kelp to hold themselves in place while they sleep. Charles Santoso's endearing black-and-white illustrations, meanwhile, add to the buoyancy of this accessible and informative story." -- The Wall Street Journal "Writing in exquisitely descriptive free verse, Applegate delivers an uplifting tale of an inquisitive sea otter pup raised by scientists after being separated from her mother. ...Though humans make cameo appearances...the focus remains rightfully on its enigmatic star: a lovable otter who not only survives against the odds but thrives." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review "Based on the Monterey Bay Aquarium and its otter rescue and fostering program, this gorgeous story is told in flowing free verse that slips by as silkily as an otter in water. ... Told almost entirely from Odder's perspective, imparting dreamy observations of the natural and human worlds from an animal's point of view. Handsome black-and-white illustrations...punctuate the verses... A stunning study of a remarkable and resilient sea creature." -- Booklist, starred review "Soft, black-and-white illustrations dot Odder's story, enhancing readers' emotional connections to a captivating tale about life's existential balance between survival and play." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (BCCB), starred review " The free verse effortlessly weaves in scientific information, giving Odder a voice without overly anthropomorphizing any of the animals. The natural appeal of sea otters will draw readers in, but the book doesn't shy away from real-world threats such as predators, disease, and pollution.... Charming black-and-white spot art captures the world and life of the sea." -- Kirkus Reviews "This book will appeal to animal lovers and anyone who feels a little stifled by convention. Hand this to middle grade fans of marine biology, authors like Sharon Creech and Eliot Schrefer, and Applegate's Newbery-winning The One and Only Ivan. " -- School Library Journal "Applegate's text is absorbing, her spotlight on the animals' nature and emotions powerful....Charles Santoso sensitively details his realistic, curvilinear black-and-white illustrations. Santoso's superb spot art and the extensive author's note add much to this stellar presentation." --Shelf Awareness, starred review "[V]ery accessible and appealing to young animal lovers." -- The Horn Book Magazine, "Writing in exquisitely descriptive free verse, Applegate delivers an uplifting tale of an inquisitive sea otter pup raised by scientists after being separated from her mother. ...Though humans make cameo appearances in this edifying novel about otter life, the focus remains rightfully on its enigmatic star: a lovable otter who not only survives against the odds but thrives." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review "Based on the Monterey Bay Aquarium and its otter rescue and fostering program, this gorgeous story is told in flowing free verse that slips by as silkily as an otter in water. The unconventional form perfectly suits a story told almost entirely from Odder's perspective, imparting dreamy observations of the natural and human worlds from an animal's point of view. Handsome black-and-white illustrations, some of them simple studies of sea creatures, punctuate the verses; it's almost impossible to resist the depictions of fluffy otter pups. A stunning study of a remarkable and resilient sea creature." -- Booklist, starred review, "Writing in exquisitely descriptive free verse, Applegate delivers an uplifting tale of an inquisitive sea otter pup raised by scientists after being separated from her mother. ...Though humans make cameo appearances...the focus remains rightfully on its enigmatic star: a lovable otter who not only survives against the odds but thrives." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review "Based on the Monterey Bay Aquarium and its otter rescue and fostering program, this gorgeous story is told in flowing free verse that slips by as silkily as an otter in water. ... Told almost entirely from Odder's perspective, imparting dreamy observations of the natural and human worlds from an animal's point of view. Handsome black-and-white illustrations...punctuate the verses... A stunning study of a remarkable and resilient sea creature." -- Booklist, starred review "Soft, black-and-white illustrations dot Odder's story, enhancing readers' emotional connections to a captivating tale about life's existential balance between survival and play." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (BCCB), starred review " The free verse effortlessly weaves in scientific information, giving Odder a voice without overly anthropomorphizing any of the animals. The natural appeal of sea otters will draw readers in, but the book doesn't shy away from real-world threats such as predators, disease, and pollution.... Charming black-and-white spot art captures the world and life of the sea." -- Kirkus Reviews "This book will appeal to animal lovers and anyone who feels a little stifled by convention. Hand this to middle grade fans of marine biology, authors like Sharon Creech and Eliot Schrefer, and Applegate's Newbery-winning The One and Only Ivan. " -- School Library Journal, "Writing in exquisitely descriptive free verse, Applegate delivers an uplifting tale of an inquisitive sea otter pup raised by scientists after being separated from her mother. ...Though humans make cameo appearances...the focus remains rightfully on its enigmatic star: a lovable otter who not only survives against the odds but thrives." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review "Based on the Monterey Bay Aquarium and its otter rescue and fostering program, this gorgeous story is told in flowing free verse that slips by as silkily as an otter in water. ... Told almost entirely from Odder's perspective, imparting dreamy observations of the natural and human worlds from an animal's point of view. Handsome black-and-white illustrations...punctuate the verses... A stunning study of a remarkable and resilient sea creature." -- Booklist, starred review, A #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER! A Publishers Weekly bestseller A #1 Indie Bestseller! A 2023 Notable Verse Novel, National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) An Amazon Best Book of 2022 Parents Magazine Best Book of 2022 "Applegate's Odder will win your heart." -- The New York Times " Applegate uses strands of nonfiction detail to anchor and give stability to Odder's fictional story, much as sea otters use lengths of kelp to hold themselves in place while they sleep. Charles Santoso's endearing black-and-white illustrations, meanwhile, add to the buoyancy of this accessible and informative story." -- The Wall Street Journal "Writing in exquisitely descriptive free verse, Applegate delivers an uplifting tale of an inquisitive sea otter pup raised by scientists after being separated from her mother. ...Though humans make cameo appearances...the focus remains rightfully on its enigmatic star: a lovable otter who not only survives against the odds but thrives." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review "Based on the Monterey Bay Aquarium and its otter rescue and fostering program, this gorgeous story is told in flowing free verse that slips by as silkily as an otter in water. ... Told almost entirely from Odder's perspective, imparting dreamy observations of the natural and human worlds from an animal's point of view. Handsome black-and-white illustrations...punctuate the verses... A stunning study of a remarkable and resilient sea creature." -- Booklist, starred review "Soft, black-and-white illustrations dot Odder's story, enhancing readers' emotional connections to a captivating tale about life's existential balance between survival and play." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (BCCB), starred review " The free verse effortlessly weaves in scientific information, giving Odder a voice without overly anthropomorphizing any of the animals. The natural appeal of sea otters will draw readers in, but the book doesn't shy away from real-world threats such as predators, disease, and pollution.... Charming black-and-white spot art captures the world and life of the sea." -- Kirkus Reviews "This book will appeal to animal lovers and anyone who feels a little stifled by convention. Hand this to middle grade fans of marine biology, authors like Sharon Creech and Eliot Schrefer, and Applegate's Newbery-winning The One and Only Ivan. " -- School Library Journal "Applegate's text is absorbing, her spotlight on the animals' nature and emotions powerful....Charles Santoso sensitively details his realistic, curvilinear black-and-white illustrations. Santoso's superb spot art and the extensive author's note add much to this stellar presentation." --Shelf Awareness, starred review "[V]ery accessible and appealing to young animal lovers." -- The Horn Book Magazine, A #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER! A Publishers Weekly bestseller "Writing in exquisitely descriptive free verse, Applegate delivers an uplifting tale of an inquisitive sea otter pup raised by scientists after being separated from her mother. ...Though humans make cameo appearances...the focus remains rightfully on its enigmatic star: a lovable otter who not only survives against the odds but thrives." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review "Based on the Monterey Bay Aquarium and its otter rescue and fostering program, this gorgeous story is told in flowing free verse that slips by as silkily as an otter in water. ... Told almost entirely from Odder's perspective, imparting dreamy observations of the natural and human worlds from an animal's point of view. Handsome black-and-white illustrations...punctuate the verses... A stunning study of a remarkable and resilient sea creature." -- Booklist, starred review "Soft, black-and-white illustrations dot Odder's story, enhancing readers' emotional connections to a captivating tale about life's existential balance between survival and play." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (BCCB), starred review " The free verse effortlessly weaves in scientific information, giving Odder a voice without overly anthropomorphizing any of the animals. The natural appeal of sea otters will draw readers in, but the book doesn't shy away from real-world threats such as predators, disease, and pollution.... Charming black-and-white spot art captures the world and life of the sea." -- Kirkus Reviews "This book will appeal to animal lovers and anyone who feels a little stifled by convention. Hand this to middle grade fans of marine biology, authors like Sharon Creech and Eliot Schrefer, and Applegate's Newbery-winning The One and Only Ivan. " -- School Library Journal, A #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER! A Publishers Weekly bestseller A #1 Indie Bestseller! "Applegate's Odder will win your heart." -- The New York Times " Applegate uses strands of nonfiction detail to anchor and give stability to Odder's fictional story, much as sea otters use lengths of kelp to hold themselves in place while they sleep. Charles Santoso's endearing black-and-white illustrations, meanwhile, add to the buoyancy of this accessible and informative story." -- The Wall Street Journal "Writing in exquisitely descriptive free verse, Applegate delivers an uplifting tale of an inquisitive sea otter pup raised by scientists after being separated from her mother. ...Though humans make cameo appearances...the focus remains rightfully on its enigmatic star: a lovable otter who not only survives against the odds but thrives." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review "Based on the Monterey Bay Aquarium and its otter rescue and fostering program, this gorgeous story is told in flowing free verse that slips by as silkily as an otter in water. ... Told almost entirely from Odder's perspective, imparting dreamy observations of the natural and human worlds from an animal's point of view. Handsome black-and-white illustrations...punctuate the verses... A stunning study of a remarkable and resilient sea creature." -- Booklist, starred review "Soft, black-and-white illustrations dot Odder's story, enhancing readers' emotional connections to a captivating tale about life's existential balance between survival and play." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (BCCB), starred review " The free verse effortlessly weaves in scientific information, giving Odder a voice without overly anthropomorphizing any of the animals. The natural appeal of sea otters will draw readers in, but the book doesn't shy away from real-world threats such as predators, disease, and pollution.... Charming black-and-white spot art captures the world and life of the sea." -- Kirkus Reviews "This book will appeal to animal lovers and anyone who feels a little stifled by convention. Hand this to middle grade fans of marine biology, authors like Sharon Creech and Eliot Schrefer, and Applegate's Newbery-winning The One and Only Ivan. " -- School Library Journal "Applegate's text is absorbing, her spotlight on the animals' nature and emotions powerful....Charles Santoso sensitively details his realistic, curvilinear black-and-white illustrations. Santoso's superb spot art and the extensive author's note add much to this stellar presentation." --Shelf Awareness, starred review "[V]ery accessible and appealing to young animal lovers." -- The Horn Book Magazine, A #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER! A Publishers Weekly bestseller A #1 Indie Bestseller! An Amazon Best Book of 2022 "Applegate's Odder will win your heart." -- The New York Times " Applegate uses strands of nonfiction detail to anchor and give stability to Odder's fictional story, much as sea otters use lengths of kelp to hold themselves in place while they sleep. Charles Santoso's endearing black-and-white illustrations, meanwhile, add to the buoyancy of this accessible and informative story." -- The Wall Street Journal "Writing in exquisitely descriptive free verse, Applegate delivers an uplifting tale of an inquisitive sea otter pup raised by scientists after being separated from her mother. ...Though humans make cameo appearances...the focus remains rightfully on its enigmatic star: a lovable otter who not only survives against the odds but thrives." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review "Based on the Monterey Bay Aquarium and its otter rescue and fostering program, this gorgeous story is told in flowing free verse that slips by as silkily as an otter in water. ... Told almost entirely from Odder's perspective, imparting dreamy observations of the natural and human worlds from an animal's point of view. Handsome black-and-white illustrations...punctuate the verses... A stunning study of a remarkable and resilient sea creature." -- Booklist, starred review "Soft, black-and-white illustrations dot Odder's story, enhancing readers' emotional connections to a captivating tale about life's existential balance between survival and play." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (BCCB), starred review " The free verse effortlessly weaves in scientific information, giving Odder a voice without overly anthropomorphizing any of the animals. The natural appeal of sea otters will draw readers in, but the book doesn't shy away from real-world threats such as predators, disease, and pollution.... Charming black-and-white spot art captures the world and life of the sea." -- Kirkus Reviews "This book will appeal to animal lovers and anyone who feels a little stifled by convention. Hand this to middle grade fans of marine biology, authors like Sharon Creech and Eliot Schrefer, and Applegate's Newbery-winning The One and Only Ivan. " -- School Library Journal "Applegate's text is absorbing, her spotlight on the animals' nature and emotions powerful....Charles Santoso sensitively details his realistic, curvilinear black-and-white illustrations. Santoso's superb spot art and the extensive author's note add much to this stellar presentation." --Shelf Awareness, starred review "[V]ery accessible and appealing to young animal lovers." -- The Horn Book Magazine, "Based on the Monterey Bay Aquarium and its otter rescue and fostering program, this gorgeous story is told in flowing free verse that slips by as silkily as an otter in water. The unconventional form perfectly suits a story told almost entirely from Odder's perspective, imparting dreamy observations of the natural and human worlds from an animal's point of view. Handsome black-and-white illustrations, some of them simple studies of sea creatures, punctuate the verses; it's almost impossible to resist the depictions of fluffy otter pups. A stunning study of a remarkable and resilient sea creature." -- Booklist, starred review, A #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER! A Publishers Weekly bestseller A #1 Indie Bestseller! "Writing in exquisitely descriptive free verse, Applegate delivers an uplifting tale of an inquisitive sea otter pup raised by scientists after being separated from her mother. ...Though humans make cameo appearances...the focus remains rightfully on its enigmatic star: a lovable otter who not only survives against the odds but thrives." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review "Based on the Monterey Bay Aquarium and its otter rescue and fostering program, this gorgeous story is told in flowing free verse that slips by as silkily as an otter in water. ... Told almost entirely from Odder's perspective, imparting dreamy observations of the natural and human worlds from an animal's point of view. Handsome black-and-white illustrations...punctuate the verses... A stunning study of a remarkable and resilient sea creature." -- Booklist, starred review "Soft, black-and-white illustrations dot Odder's story, enhancing readers' emotional connections to a captivating tale about life's existential balance between survival and play." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (BCCB), starred review " The free verse effortlessly weaves in scientific information, giving Odder a voice without overly anthropomorphizing any of the animals. The natural appeal of sea otters will draw readers in, but the book doesn't shy away from real-world threats such as predators, disease, and pollution.... Charming black-and-white spot art captures the world and life of the sea." -- Kirkus Reviews "This book will appeal to animal lovers and anyone who feels a little stifled by convention. Hand this to middle grade fans of marine biology, authors like Sharon Creech and Eliot Schrefer, and Applegate's Newbery-winning The One and Only Ivan. " -- School Library Journal, A #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER! A Publishers Weekly bestseller A #1 Indie Bestseller! A Notable Verse Novel, National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) An Amazon Best Book Parents Magazine Best Book A Blue Ribbon List selection Vermont Golden Dome Book Award Master List Evanston Public Library Blueberry Fiction Honor Title Winner, Great Stone Face Award, Children's Librarians of New Hampshire Winner, Black-Eyed Susan Book Award, Maryland Association of School Librarians Winner, Vermont Golden Dome Book Award "Applegate's Odder will win your heart." -- The New York Times " Applegate uses strands of nonfiction detail to anchor and give stability to Odder's fictional story, much as sea otters use lengths of kelp to hold themselves in place while they sleep. Charles Santoso's endearing black-and-white illustrations, meanwhile, add to the buoyancy of this accessible and informative story." -- The Wall Street Journal "Writing in exquisitely descriptive free verse, Applegate delivers an uplifting tale of an inquisitive sea otter pup raised by scientists after being separated from her mother. ...Though humans make cameo appearances...the focus remains rightfully on its enigmatic star: a lovable otter who not only survives against the odds but thrives." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review "Based on the Monterey Bay Aquarium and its otter rescue and fostering program, this gorgeous story is told in flowing free verse that slips by as silkily as an otter in water. ... Told almost entirely from Odder's perspective, imparting dreamy observations of the natural and human worlds from an animal's point of view. Handsome black-and-white illustrations...punctuate the verses... A stunning study of a remarkable and resilient sea creature." -- Booklist, starred review "Soft, black-and-white illustrations dot Odder's story, enhancing readers' emotional connections to a captivating tale about life's existential balance between survival and play." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (BCCB), starred review "The free verse effortlessly weaves in scientific information, giving Odder a voice without overly anthropomorphizing any of the animals." -- Kirkus Reviews "This book will appeal to animal lovers and anyone who feels a little stifled by convention. Hand this to middle grade fans of marine biology, authors like Sharon Creech and Eliot Schrefer, and Applegate's Newbery-winning The One and Only Ivan. " -- School Library Journal "Applegate's text is absorbing, her spotlight on the animals' nature and emotions powerful....Charles Santoso sensitively details his realistic, curvilinear black-and-white illustrations. Santoso's superb spot art and the extensive author's note add much to this stellar presentation." --Shelf Awareness, starred review "[V]ery accessible and appealing to young animal lovers." -- The Horn Book Magazine, A #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER! A Publishers Weekly bestseller A #1 Indie Bestseller! A 2023 Notable Verse Novel, National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) An Amazon Best Book of 2022 Parents Magazine Best Book of 2022 A 2022 Blue Ribbon List selection 2022-2023 Vermont Golden Dome Book Award Master List Evanston Public Library 2022 Blueberry Fiction Honor Title Winner, Great Stone Face Award, Children's Librarians of New Hampshire Winner, Black-Eyed Susan Book Award, Maryland Association of School Librarians "Applegate's Odder will win your heart." -- The New York Times " Applegate uses strands of nonfiction detail to anchor and give stability to Odder's fictional story, much as sea otters use lengths of kelp to hold themselves in place while they sleep. Charles Santoso's endearing black-and-white illustrations, meanwhile, add to the buoyancy of this accessible and informative story." -- The Wall Street Journal "Writing in exquisitely descriptive free verse, Applegate delivers an uplifting tale of an inquisitive sea otter pup raised by scientists after being separated from her mother. ...Though humans make cameo appearances...the focus remains rightfully on its enigmatic star: a lovable otter who not only survives against the odds but thrives." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review "Based on the Monterey Bay Aquarium and its otter rescue and fostering program, this gorgeous story is told in flowing free verse that slips by as silkily as an otter in water. ... Told almost entirely from Odder's perspective, imparting dreamy observations of the natural and human worlds from an animal's point of view. Handsome black-and-white illustrations...punctuate the verses... A stunning study of a remarkable and resilient sea creature." -- Booklist, starred review "Soft, black-and-white illustrations dot Odder's story, enhancing readers' emotional connections to a captivating tale about life's existential balance between survival and play." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (BCCB), starred review " The free verse effortlessly weaves in scientific information, giving Odder a voice without overly anthropomorphizing any of the animals. The natural appeal of sea otters will draw readers in, but the book doesn't shy away from real-world threats such as predators, disease, and pollution.... Charming black-and-white spot art captures the world and life of the sea." -- Kirkus Reviews "This book will appeal to animal lovers and anyone who feels a little stifled by convention. Hand this to middle grade fans of marine biology, authors like Sharon Creech and Eliot Schrefer, and Applegate's Newbery-winning The One and Only Ivan. " -- School Library Journal "Applegate's text is absorbing, her spotlight on the animals' nature and emotions powerful....Charles Santoso sensitively details his realistic, curvilinear black-and-white illustrations. Santoso's superb spot art and the extensive author's note add much to this stellar presentation." --Shelf Awareness, starred review "[V]ery accessible and appealing to young animal lovers." -- The Horn Book Magazine, A #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER! A Publishers Weekly bestseller A #1 Indie Bestseller! "Applegate's Odder will win your heart." -- The New York Times " Applegate uses strands of nonfiction detail to anchor and give stability to Odder's fictional story, much as sea otters use lengths of kelp to hold themselves in place while they sleep. Charles Santoso's endearing black-and-white illustrations, meanwhile, add to the buoyancy of this accessible and informative story." -- The Wall Street Journal "Writing in exquisitely descriptive free verse, Applegate delivers an uplifting tale of an inquisitive sea otter pup raised by scientists after being separated from her mother. ...Though humans make cameo appearances...the focus remains rightfully on its enigmatic star: a lovable otter who not only survives against the odds but thrives." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review "Based on the Monterey Bay Aquarium and its otter rescue and fostering program, this gorgeous story is told in flowing free verse that slips by as silkily as an otter in water. ... Told almost entirely from Odder's perspective, imparting dreamy observations of the natural and human worlds from an animal's point of view. Handsome black-and-white illustrations...punctuate the verses... A stunning study of a remarkable and resilient sea creature." -- Booklist, starred review "Soft, black-and-white illustrations dot Odder's story, enhancing readers' emotional connections to a captivating tale about life's existential balance between survival and play." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (BCCB), starred review " The free verse effortlessly weaves in scientific information, giving Odder a voice without overly anthropomorphizing any of the animals. The natural appeal of sea otters will draw readers in, but the book doesn't shy away from real-world threats such as predators, disease, and pollution.... Charming black-and-white spot art captures the world and life of the sea." -- Kirkus Reviews "This book will appeal to animal lovers and anyone who feels a little stifled by convention. Hand this to middle grade fans of marine biology, authors like Sharon Creech and Eliot Schrefer, and Applegate's Newbery-winning The One and Only Ivan. " -- School Library Journal "Applegate's text is absorbing, her spotlight on the animals' nature and emotions powerful....Charles Santoso sensitively details his realistic, curvilinear black-and-white illustrations. Santoso's superb spot art and the extensive author's note add much to this stellar presentation." --Shelf Awareness "[V]ery accessible and appealing to young animal lovers." -- The Horn Book Magazine, A #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER! A Publishers Weekly bestseller A #1 Indie Bestseller! A 2023 Notable Verse Novel, National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) An Amazon Best Book of 2022 Parents Magazine Best Book of 2022 A 2022 Blue Ribbon List selection 2022-2023 Vermont Golden Dome Book Award Master List Evanston Public Library 2022 Blueberry Fiction Honor Title Winner, Black-Eyed Susan Book Award, Maryland Association of School Librarians "Applegate's Odder will win your heart." -- The New York Times " Applegate uses strands of nonfiction detail to anchor and give stability to Odder's fictional story, much as sea otters use lengths of kelp to hold themselves in place while they sleep. Charles Santoso's endearing black-and-white illustrations, meanwhile, add to the buoyancy of this accessible and informative story." -- The Wall Street Journal "Writing in exquisitely descriptive free verse, Applegate delivers an uplifting tale of an inquisitive sea otter pup raised by scientists after being separated from her mother. ...Though humans make cameo appearances...the focus remains rightfully on its enigmatic star: a lovable otter who not only survives against the odds but thrives." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review "Based on the Monterey Bay Aquarium and its otter rescue and fostering program, this gorgeous story is told in flowing free verse that slips by as silkily as an otter in water. ... Told almost entirely from Odder's perspective, imparting dreamy observations of the natural and human worlds from an animal's point of view. Handsome black-and-white illustrations...punctuate the verses... A stunning study of a remarkable and resilient sea creature." -- Booklist, starred review "Soft, black-and-white illustrations dot Odder's story, enhancing readers' emotional connections to a captivating tale about life's existential balance between survival and play." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (BCCB), starred review " The free verse effortlessly weaves in scientific information, giving Odder a voice without overly anthropomorphizing any of the animals. The natural appeal of sea otters will draw readers in, but the book doesn't shy away from real-world threats such as predators, disease, and pollution.... Charming black-and-white spot art captures the world and life of the sea." -- Kirkus Reviews "This book will appeal to animal lovers and anyone who feels a little stifled by convention. Hand this to middle grade fans of marine biology, authors like Sharon Creech and Eliot Schrefer, and Applegate's Newbery-winning The One and Only Ivan. " -- School Library Journal "Applegate's text is absorbing, her spotlight on the animals' nature and emotions powerful....Charles Santoso sensitively details his realistic, curvilinear black-and-white illustrations. Santoso's superb spot art and the extensive author's note add much to this stellar presentation." --Shelf Awareness, starred review "[V]ery accessible and appealing to young animal lovers." -- The Horn Book Magazine, A #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER! A Publishers Weekly bestseller A #1 Indie Bestseller! A 2023 Notable Verse Novel, National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) An Amazon Best Book of 2022 Parents Magazine Best Book of 2022 A 2022 Blue Ribbon List selection 2022-2023 Vermont Golden Dome Book Award Master List Evanston Public Library 2022 Blueberry Fiction Honor Title Winner, Great Stone Face Award, Children's Librarians of New Hampshire Winner, Black-Eyed Susan Book Award, Maryland Association of School Librarians Winner, Vermont Golden Dome Book Award "Applegate's Odder will win your heart." -- The New York Times " Applegate uses strands of nonfiction detail to anchor and give stability to Odder's fictional story, much as sea otters use lengths of kelp to hold themselves in place while they sleep. Charles Santoso's endearing black-and-white illustrations, meanwhile, add to the buoyancy of this accessible and informative story." -- The Wall Street Journal "Writing in exquisitely descriptive free verse, Applegate delivers an uplifting tale of an inquisitive sea otter pup raised by scientists after being separated from her mother. ...Though humans make cameo appearances...the focus remains rightfully on its enigmatic star: a lovable otter who not only survives against the odds but thrives." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review "Based on the Monterey Bay Aquarium and its otter rescue and fostering program, this gorgeous story is told in flowing free verse that slips by as silkily as an otter in water. ... Told almost entirely from Odder's perspective, imparting dreamy observations of the natural and human worlds from an animal's point of view. Handsome black-and-white illustrations...punctuate the verses... A stunning study of a remarkable and resilient sea creature." -- Booklist, starred review "Soft, black-and-white illustrations dot Odder's story, enhancing readers' emotional connections to a captivating tale about life's existential balance between survival and play." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (BCCB), starred review " The free verse effortlessly weaves in scientific information, giving Odder a voice without overly anthropomorphizing any of the animals. The natural appeal of sea otters will draw readers in, but the book doesn't shy away from real-world threats such as predators, disease, and pollution.... Charming black-and-white spot art captures the world and life of the sea." -- Kirkus Reviews "This book will appeal to animal lovers and anyone who feels a little stifled by convention. Hand this to middle grade fans of marine biology, authors like Sharon Creech and Eliot Schrefer, and Applegate's Newbery-winning The One and Only Ivan. " -- School Library Journal "Applegate's text is absorbing, her spotlight on the animals' nature and emotions powerful....Charles Santoso sensitively details his realistic, curvilinear black-and-white illustrations. Santoso's superb spot art and the extensive author's note add much to this stellar presentation." --Shelf Awareness, starred review "[V]ery accessible and appealing to young animal lovers." -- The Horn Book Magazine
Dewey Edition23/eng/20230220