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Saanich author delves into secret lives of octopuses in new book for kids

Octopus Ocean: Geniuses of the Deep offers an in-depth look at these fascinating creatures
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Octopus Ocean: Geniuses of the Deep is the latest work from Mark Leiren-Young.

Award-winning author and ocean activist Mark Leiren-Young is bringing the mysterious world of octopuses to young readers in his new book, Octopus Ocean: Geniuses of the Deep.

Set to be released on Feb. 11, the book will offer an in-depth look at these fascinating creatures, from their biology to their habitats, habits, and the myths surrounding them.

Leiren-Young, a Saanich-based writer with a passion for ocean conservation, invites readers to explore the hidden lives of octopuses, diving into their extraordinary intelligence, their ability to adapt to different environments, and their problem-solving skills. The book goes beyond just facts, touching on the serious threats octopuses face from warming oceans, overfishing, and pollution.

In Octopus Ocean, Leiren-Young draws on the latest research to paint a vivid picture of these "geniuses of the deep." With colourful photographs of octopus species from around the world, the book is as visually engaging as it is educational. It also includes real-world examples of octopus behaviour, making it an informative and captivating read for children.

Leiren-Young is the author of three books about whales for children: Orcas Everywhere: The Mystery and History of Killer Whales (which won the City of Victoria Children’s Book Prize), Orcas of the Salish Sea and Big Whales, Small World (which were all commended as selections for the 2020 CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens). He has also written two books about sharks: Sharks Forever: The Mystery and History of the Planet’s Perfect Predator and Big Sharks, Small World.

Octopus Ocean is available for pre-order now, for more information, visit Orca Book Publishers.