Song of a Thousand Seas by Zana Fraillon

“…all we want is to feel the Sea
taste the Sea smell the Sea twist ourselves to Sea…” 

As a book reviewer I am fortunate to read many outstanding stories. Song of a Thousand Seas written by Zana Fraillon is one such story. Written in verse, this short but captivating tale will stay with the reader long after it is finished and may provide a growing understanding of the enthralling life of the octopus species.

This narrative is about Houdini, a day octopus living in captivity who has memories about what it is like to live free in the wild ocean. Her compelling story and her relationship with the human characters in her life will engage readers of all ages and provide many fascinating and little known facts about this incredible sea creature. With eight arms, nine brains, three hearts and 3,154 suckers, Houdini has been in captivity since she was young. She is considered by adults to be well looked after but longs for the time when she can be free. Houdini’s nine brains each work independently of each other but all yearn for what they are missing.

To while away the time the very clever and cheeky Houdini causes obvious and not so obvious mayhem to keep her carer on his toes.  When Juno comes to visit the aquarium there is an immediate connection between her and Houdini. Juno’s brain works differently to others and yet she feels and senses immediately what her father cannot about Houdini’s captivity. As the story progresses, the bond between Juno and Houdini deepens and ultimately choices are made.

The short verse style with each having its own heading is creatively presented. There are delightful illustrations spread throughout and the glorious cover will hook readers in. As an added bonus are octopus facts in the final pages as well as the thoughtful Author’s Note.  

Teachers’ Notes are available.

Themes: Octopus, Facts, Animals in Captivity, Family, Friendships, Neurodivergent, Oceans, Environment, Homecoming, Verse.

Kathryn Beilby