How to Save an Otter is the first book in a new chapter book series by Kate Messner. The main protagonist is Ivy, who with her mother and brother are volunteers for Critter Couriers for the local wildlife hospital. Throughout the book and in a note at the end, there is helpful and educational information about what to do and not do when encountering an injured animal. Readers who like animals or conservation efforts will be particularly drawn to this series. It isn’t a particularly action-packed book because it is fairly realistic. Ivy has school, activities, and other concerns like friendships that she is working through while the injured animal is recovering. One particularly charming touch is that the first and last chapters are from the baby otter’s perspective.

As a chapter book, this book is designed to help young readers transition from picture books to middle grade books with brief chapters and supporting illustrations. Although Compass Books Ratings age recommendations start at 9+, this book could definitely be enjoyed by the youngest of readers.

Review of a Digital Advance Reading Copy Provided by the Publisher

Content Analysis:

Profanity/Language: None

Violence/Gore: Animal found with an injury that appears to be from another animal attacking it, mention of blood; animals eat other animals/fish as their food source.

Sex/Nudity: None

Mature Subject Matter:

None

Alcohol/Drug Use:

None