The Octopus

Low tide around the lighthouse means it's time to go exploring. With a packed breakfast and a passion for discovery, the lighthouse children venture out through recently uncovered parts of the ocean and encounter an octopus named Cleo who can change color as quickly as his mood. Cleo has spent his life living in the nooks and crannies of an abandoned ship at the bottom of the ocean. However, during this special day when the tide is low, Cleo is ready to do some exploring on his own and the lighthouse family is there as his guide.Newbery Medalist Cynthia Rylant and illustrator Preston McDaniels bring the peaceful sounds, sights, and characters of the coast into the imagination and hearts of readers.

Cynthia Rylant is the author of more than 100 books for young people, including the beloved Henry and Mudge, Annie and Snowball, Brownie & Pearl, Motor Mouse, and Mr. Putter & Tabby series. Her novel Missing May received the Newbery Medal. She lives in Lake Oswego, Oregon.

Preston McDaniels is the illustrator of the Phineas L. MacGuire series and Cynthia Rylant’s Lighthouse Family series. He lives in Aurora, Nebraska, with his wife and two daughters.