"This should be cephalopod catnip for readers who are just beginning to feel the stirrings of independence, ingenuity, and curiosity about worlds waiting outside their own walls." - Publishers Weekly (starred review) "A ­daring escape, an engaging hero, and a happy ending, along with the chance to learn more about the amazing octopus. This is an all-around winner, a tall tale that ­happens to be (­mostly) the truth." - School Library Journal "Hanson's lively rhymes, a pleasure to read aloud, vary their rhythm without stumbling and adeptly convey information while telling a captivating story. Bernstein's colorful illustrations realistically portray the aquarium and sea animals while also allowing Inky's eyes full cartoon scope to express his personality, emotions, and intelligence. Backmatter with info on octopuses and the real-life Inky add educational depth. Certain to grab nature lovers." - Kirkus Reviews (starred review) "A salute to Inky, a clever octopus who took advantage of a tank lid left slightly ajar in a New Zealand aquarium, escaping down a drain and back to the sea.

Hanson relates the (reconstructed) episode in playful verse, and Bernstein records it in wide illustrations featuring a big, mottled mollusk with expressive eyes and a thick tangle of gracefully curled arms. The author closes with more on Inky's original capture and backstory, plus basic information about octopuses." - Booklist.