Title: Izzy and Oscar
Story by Allison Estes and Dan Stark
Illustrations by Tracy Dockray
Release Date: April 7, 2015
ISBN: 9781492601500
Suggested Retail: $16.99 Hardcover
Did you know octopuses make the best pets? Izzy, this cute little girl who often imagines she is a pirate captain, finds a little octopus that has managed to wander into town. She was looking for something to be her pet and also a mascot. Izzy thought this little guy would fit the bill nicely and so she named him Oscar.
It took a while for Izzy to discover what Oscar would eat and if he could do any tricks like a traditional pet. Izzy also discovered what made octopuses unique, like their ability to camouflage and produce ink. Oscar wasn’t being the best house pet, but Izzy still loved him. One day, Izzy found herself in danger and Oscar came to the rescue. From then on, the city pool had their best lifeguard ever, Oscar.
This cute book is recommended for children ages 4-8. Izzy and Oscar is beautifully illustrated and shows how we can all be truly unique and yet loved for who we are. 12 fun and interesting “octofacts” are included at the end of the story (Did you know octopuses can be small as 3/8″ and have three hearts?).
About the Author and Illustrator:
Allison Estes has written fifteen books for young readers. She teaches writing through the New York Writers Workshop, the JCC in Manhattan, the New York Public Library, and the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council in Oxford, MS.
Dan Stark practiced law for twenty-seven years before beginning his career as a writer. Dan lives in New Jersey with his daughter, Lily, and their dog, Coop.
Tracy Dockray has illustrated numerous picture books, as well as an edition of Beverly Cleary’s Ramona Series, Ralph the Mouse Series, and Ribsy Series. Her most recent book, The Lost and Found Pony, won the Moonbeam Award.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book to review. No other compensation was received for this post. The thoughts and feelings expressed are my own.
