The Secret Life of the Sea Otter (Secret Life)

An informative and engaging introduction to an animal known as the old man of the sea.

PreS-Gr 3--This extraordinary presentation opens the world of sea otters to young readers in a fascinating way. With an economy of well-chosen text that reveals the wonders of the saltwater habitat, master writer Pringle introduces Lutris, named for her scientific name. With Garchinsky's artistic skill, they offer an appealing look into more than just her diet, physical features, motherhood, and predators. It is the why and how of her life that is not to be missed. Pringle explains the importance of sea otters in the ecosystem. The otter's role as a keystone species points to how these animals protect the kelp beds and keep them healthy. Their importance will expand in the minds of children as they realize that the sea otter is still on the endangered list in California. This is a wonderful, unforgettable sea adventure which was carefully vetted by the California Monterey Bay Aquarium's Sea Otter Research expert. The back matter contains more information about sea otters, a glossary, and recommended reading. VERDICT This is a juvenile nonfiction treasure; highly recommended to all libraries who serve children.--Nancy Call

Copyright 2022 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

"Laurence Pringle's nimble text and Kate Garchinsky's soft-edged paintings work together here to create an endearing and illuminating account of a year in the life of a fictional female otter named Lutris...This is children's nonfiction at its best: as engaging as a story and as informative as an encyclopedia." —The Wall Street Journal

"In this latest installment of the Secret Life series, Pringle and Garchinsky follow the familiar, successful pattern of their previous books, looking closely at an individual animal to learn about the habits and habitat of the species in general. Here, a sea otter named Lutris (after her scientific name) rests, feeds, escapes a predatory shark, bears and raises a pup, and survives a storm...The rich, descriptive language would be a pleasure to read aloud...An informative and engaging introduction to an animal known as the old man of the sea." —Kirkus Reviews

"This picture-book introduction to the species follows Lutris, a fictional sea otter, as she swims through kelp forests, hunts for shellfish, and teaches her new pup how to survive. Conversational, straightforward text describes how Lutris's natural adaptations allow her to thrive in her habitat. Potentially unfamiliar terms are italicized and defined in an appended glossary. Digital illustrations skillfully capture stormy skies, deep ocean waters, and otters' playful antics. 'More About Sea Otters' provides additional information on this endangered species. A reading list is included at book's end."—The Horn Book