Lambelet, Anne. I’m a Dumbo Octopus: A Graphic Guide to Cephalopods. Anne Lambelet, Illus. Graphic Universe, 03/2025. 72pp. Graphic. Trade $29.32. 979-8765603055. Paper $12.99. 979-8765661376. GRADES 2–5. OUTSTANDING.
A personality-packed dumbo octopus named Grimpy introduces itself, and its whole class of cephalopods, in an engaging nonfiction graphic novel. Adorable and humorous illustrations in shades of blue and pink manage to be lively, dramatic, and clear. Grimpy speaks directly to readers, asking questions, exclaiming, and narrating interactions among dozens of dazzling cephalopods, whether explaining the tool-using intelligence of the coconut octopus, or the ever-changing colorful communications of cuttlefish. The seventy-two pages fly by as each turn reveals more jaw-dropping facts, more fun, and more reasons to love Grimpy. Equally educational and entertaining, hand this to lovers of Dog Man and watch the ocean information soak in. Back matter includes an illustrated glossary, photograph, and facts about the real-life Grimpy, bibliography, and further reading.
Melissa McAvoy—Retired