I’m a Dumbo Octopus!: A Graphic Guide to Cephalopods

Gr 2-4–Grimpy, short for Grimpoteuthis, invites readers to come along on a tour of all things cephalopod. Grimpy, a dumbo octopus, is an engaging narrator, explaining amazing facts about octopuses, squids, and nautiluses. Common traits, such as saltwater environment, blue blood, and invertebrate bodies, unite the wide variety of animals in this group. “Just like the kids in your school, we don’t all look alike,” Grimpy comments. Illustrations capture the humor of the text like that of an octopus and a squid dressed as pirates, ready to battle, then deciding to go off “arm in arm in arm” when they realize how alike they are. Other illustrations offer diagrams of an octopus body, showing the ink sac and syphon, or the location of all nine brains. As the book progresses and Grimpy describes the amazing abilities of other animals—using tools, changing shape, color, or even skin texture—the narrator becomes certain, “I really AM just a Dumbo!” But the other cephalopods are quick to point out the remarkable things that a dumbo octopus can do that they cannot, highlighting Grimpy’s own unique awesomeness. The artwork is enchanting and accessible, and a wonderful spread must be turned sideways to show the various depths that assorted cephalopods inhabit. Back matter includes a glossary, a photo of “The Real-Life Grimpy,” a selected bibliography, and suggestions for further reading.