Among all the ocean's creatures, few are more captivating-or more elusive-than the octopus. Marine biologist David Scheel investigates these strange beings to try and answer long-held questions: How can we learn more about an animal whose perfect camouflage and secretive habitats make them invisible to detection? How does an almost-boneless package of muscle and protein defeat sharks, eels, and other predators, while also preying on the most heavily armored animals in the sea? How do octopus bodies even work?

Octopuses are both fierce predators and vulnerable prey; they are antisocial jerks but also neat-freak roommates; they are in every ocean habitat and yet, being rarely encountered, nowhere at all. This fascinating and engaging middle grade adaptation of Many Things Under a Rock shows young readers how to embrace the wisdom of the unknown-even if it has more arms than expected.

About the Author
David Scheel, professor of marine biology at Alaska Pacific University, has researched the behavior and ecology of octopuses for over twenty-five years. He starred, with Heidi the Octopus and his daughter Laurel, in PBS's Octopus: Making Contact. He lives in Anchorage, Alaska.

Reviews
"Jampacked with detailed anecdotes, references to relevant research, and thoughtful insights... A deep dive with appeal for those who are passionate about science and marine animals." -- Kirkus Reviews
"Makes for great, educational reading... An eloquent addition for STEM collections." -- Booklist



Book Information
ISBN 9781324019992
Author David Scheel
Format Hardback
Page Count 224
Imprint WW Norton & Co
Publisher WW Norton & Co
Weight(grams) 448g
Dimensions(mm) 239mm * 160mm * 20mm