Otto’s Ink-Redible First Day of School (Rory H Mather, illus by Rebel Challenger, Larrikin)

Otto’s Ink-Redible First Day of School is a playful and reassuring picture book about a shy octopus learning to find his place. Rory H Mather’s rhyming text bounces along with warmth and humour, capturing the familiar nerves of a first day at school with an underwater twist. Otto’s tendency to release ink whenever he feels anxious serves as both a metaphor for big emotions and a source of comic relief for young readers. Rebel Challenger’s illustrations bring the ocean setting to life, with a colourful cast of expressive sea creatures. The scenes are lively and offer plenty of intricate details for children to enjoy. While the “first day of school” theme has been explored many times, this is an engaging and approachable take on it. Otto’s story offers a gentle message that it’s okay to feel nervous, and that talents often shine brightest when shared. Best suited for preschoolers and early primary students – particularly those who are about to begin or have just started school, Otto’s Ink-Redible First Day of School is a fun read-aloud for home or classroom settings, giving children both laughter and reassurance as they navigate those first-day jitters.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Karys McEwen is a librarian, author and the education advisor for the Melbourne Writers Festival. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

Books+Publishing pre-publication reviews are supported by the Copyright Agency Cultural Fund.

Category: Friday Unlocked reviews Reviews