HELLO MY NAME IS . . .
How Adorabilis Got His Name
by Marisa Polansky ; illustrated by Joey Chou
An octopus and his tank mates agree that the scientist studying him has found the perfect name.
Polansky imagines a tiny pink octopus new to the aquarium, conversing with the others who, improbably, share his tank: an anglerfish, a yeti crab, a mimic octopus, a fangtooth, a six-gill shark (actual size 9 to 12 feet), a clownfish, a moon jelly, and a giant squid (over 40 feet). They tell him that some creatures are named for their appearance, others for things they do. When the keeper arrives, she has the name that fits best: Adorabilis. The sea creatures are male and female, the scientist a brown-haired white woman. Disney artist Chou’s digital illustrations are the draw here. Finding Nemo: Nemo’s Day Off fans will recognize these big-eyed sea creatures. In the final spread, two of Adorabilis’ tentacles form a heart, emphasizing its over-the-top cuteness. An afterword from the scientist who has been studying the actual creature at the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute discusses the discovery of this new flapjack octopus and reveals that “Adorabilis” was originally a joke name that went public. However, she does not tell readers and listeners how animals actually get their scientific names, a regrettable lack.
A sweet dessert for storytime.
(Picture book. 3-6)