Otter and Odder: A Love Story

Grades 1-3

Otter is not looking for love on the day that he finds it... instead he is looking for dinner. And the object of his love and of his dinner are one and the same: a fish named Myrtle (Gurgle). While she is fearful at first, he slowly convinces her that she is the love of his life, and they begin to spend time together. But the naysayers have plenty to say about the inappropriateness of the situation, and soon, Myrtle can take it no longer and breaks things off. Otter is heartbroken, but begins to think everyone is right: surely such a relationship was doomed from the beginning. However, he can't stop thinking about his Myrtle, and it takes the wisdom of Beaver to help him see that he must decide for himself whether he will show more follow the way of the otter or the way of the heart.

A quirky and charming story that young children will appreciate, especially with Raschka's utterly compelling stick figure drawings against bright washes of color. Keep this one in mind for Valentines Day. show less

A sweet fable for all ages. ?áI, personally, don't care for the picture style at all, so I'm taking a half star off for that. ?áBut the way that the book is too long for most rugrats, but still accessible to those who are patient, and the way it has a serious message but a light touch, utterly charm me. ?áAnyone who is, or knows someone who is, in any sort of unconventional relationship will appreciate Howe's intent. ?áI do have to be honest and say that I don't think everyone will love it, at least on first read... but I recommend you decide for yourself.

*Bonus theme for vegans, too!

This is a wonderfully-written, adorable story of an otter who fell in love with his dinner; it teaches readers to resist peer pressure, to follow their hearts, and that love comes in all shapes and sizes. Highly recommended to anyone who wants to encourage open-mindedness (and/or vegetarianism) in their children.

Written by James Howe and illustrated by Chris Raschka, what else do you need to know? Otter is looking for dinner, not love when he meets Myrtle a fish. But you can’t love your food source. Should otter follow the way of the otter or the way of the other? Howe’s thoughtful prose along with Raschka’s crayon illustrations show that he followed his heart and lived happily ever after. This review is based on an uncorrected proof from BEA 2012.

Otter finds love in a fish. It was unexpected, but it happened. It is a sweet book that gives children an insight of what love can do. Two friends fall in love and otter decides if he wants to follow his heart or follow the way of the otter.The illustrator uses crayons against translucent background. It also uses water paint. It is a wonderful book. Genre picture book.

When an otter falls in love with his food source, a fish named Myrtle, he must decide whether to follow the way of the otter or the way of his heart.