Arlo Draws an Octopus

Written by Lori Mortensen
Illustrated by Rob Sayegh Jr.
Harry N. Abrams, 2021. Picture Book.

Arlo likes octopuses. He likes their big heads and squiggly arms and suctions cups. He decides to draw a picture of an octopus. Unfortunately, nothing about this drawing is going according to Arlo's plans. His frustration makes him ask-- is he just not an octopus drawer? An unexpected friend brings clarity for Arlo and a funny surprise for readers.

This book is so adorable! The illustrations are charming and relatable to all of us who, try as we might, can't get our drawings to match the picture that is in our heads. This is a great book for anyone looking for a fun read aloud, but it can also be used as a teaching tool. Through Arlo's frustrations and realizations, readers will be reminded that they don't need to be perfect to do something. Highly recommended!

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