Odder is a sea otter with a huge personality and a thirst for an adventurous life. But she could never have anticipated the adventures she will have in her life, the new friends, the things she will learn about the ways of the world and her connection with humans.
In her first adventure something happens to her mum. Odder is just a pup and she is rescued by the staff of an aquarium in California who run a sea otter research and conservation program. With their care and training she is taught how to be an otter - things her mother would have taught her if their time together had not been caught short. When Odder is released into the sea things go well at first but one day, as she is exploring with her friend Kairi, she goes a little too far and encounters a shark. Once again she is rescued and her destiny changes.
Rich, naturalistic details will delight lovers of marine life. Kirkus review
You can hear a video interview by Colby Sharp with Katherine Applegate and a written interview with Children's Book Review. I also found an interview with The School Library Journal.
Odder is a verse novel by Katherine Applegate. You know I adore verse novels. The character of little Odder is sure to linger with you long after reading this warm-hearted story. I think this book would be terrific to read aloud or you could give it to any animal lover aged 9+. One powerful aspect of this storytelling is the way Katherine Applegate uses point of view. As a reader you really are right inside the head, heart and eyes of the young otter called Odder. If you want to explore other books which are told using the form of a verse novel there is a link on my sidebar.
One of the books I most often recommend and rave about is another book by Katherine Applegate - Wishtree (not a verse novel) but instead a book. a must read title for adults and children hence the two different covers.
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