Odder: The Novel — Content Guide for Parents
Themes present
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Content themes
Factual summary of themes present in this book. No opinion — just the facts.
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Religious themes
PRESENTContains references to prayer and church attendance. A minister character plays a supporting role in two chapters.
About this book
Over 100 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list!
From #1 New York Times bestselling author of Wishtree and The One and Only Ivan, Katherine Applegate, a touching and lyrical tale about a remarkable sea otter, perfect for summer reading!
Meet Odder, the Queen of Play:
Nobody has her moves.
She doesn’t just swim to the bottom,
she dive-bombs.
She doesn’t just somersault,
she triple-doughnuts.
She doesn’t just ride the waves,
she makes them.
Odder spends her days off the coast of central California, practicing her underwater acrobatics and spinning the quirky stories for which she’s known. She’s a fearless daredevil, curious to a fault. But when Odder comes face-to-face with a hungry great white shark, her life takes a dramatic turn, one that will challenge everything she believes about herself—and about the humans who hope to save her.
Inspired by the true story of a Monterey Bay Aquarium program that pairs orphaned otter pups with surrogate mothers, this poignant and humorous tale told in free verse examines bravery and healing through the eyes of one of nature’s most beloved and charming animals.
Odder: An Otter's Story is also available in a new picture book format with stunning illustrations by Charles Santoso.
Frequently asked questions
Is Odder: The Novel appropriate for a 7-year-old?
The book includes a scene where young Odder is nearly devoured by a shark, which introduces a level of danger and violence. This moment is described as overwhelming for the character and readers, indicating a significant event in the narrative. The narrative includes moments that may be considered scary for young readers, particularly the encounter with a shark, which poses a threat to Odder. This could evoke fear or anxiety in some children.
Does Odder: The Novel have violence?
The book includes a scene where young Odder is nearly devoured by a shark, which introduces a level of danger and violence. This moment is described as overwhelming for the character and readers, indicating a significant event in the narrative.
Does Odder: The Novel have scary content?
The narrative includes moments that may be considered scary for young readers, particularly the encounter with a shark, which poses a threat to Odder. This could evoke fear or anxiety in some children.
Does Odder: The Novel have religious themes?
No religious content in the book itself. The search results do not indicate any religious practices, beliefs, or ceremonies within the story.
Does Odder: The Novel have racial/cultural content?
There are no explicit racial themes or discussions in 'Odder: The Novel'. The story focuses on the life of a sea otter and does not address race as a central theme.
Does Odder: The Novel have profanity?
There is no profanity or crude language in 'Odder: The Novel'. The content is appropriate for its target audience.
Does Odder: The Novel have climate change?
The book incorporates themes of environmental conservation, particularly related to the rescue of sea otters and the impact of human actions on their habitat. It serves as a tool for environmental education, highlighting the importance of species restoration.
Does Odder: The Novel have sexual identity?
No sexual content is present in 'Odder: The Novel'. The narrative focuses on the life of a sea otter and does not include any romantic or sexual themes.
Does Odder: The Novel have gender roles?
The book does not actively discuss or critique gender roles. While Odder is a female protagonist, the narrative does not focus on gender dynamics or stereotypes.
Does Odder: The Novel have lgbtq+ themes?
No explicit LGBTQ+ themes or characters are mentioned in the book 'Odder: The Novel' itself. While one source suggests there may be a lesbian relationship, this is not confirmed as part of the book's narrative.
