When Arlo decides to draw an octopus, he can’t help but think that maybe he’s just not an octopus drawer. His drawing has a head that looks like a hill and eight squiggly arms that look like roads. It’s an octopus disaster-piece! But just as Arlo vows to never draw an octopus again, he makes a discovery that changes his perspective about his drawing . . . and much more.
Lori Mortensen Book order






- 2021
- 2020
Nonsense! The Curious Story of Edward Gorey
- 40 pages
- 2 hours of reading
A beautifully illustrated and lyrical picture-book biography of eccentric and beloved writer and artist Edward Gorey.
- 2019
Today's Street Dance
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Explore the hottest trends, current dancers, and most electrifying moves of today's street dance.
- 2019
Away with Words: The Daring Story of Isabella Bird
- 36 pages
- 2 hours of reading
The biography highlights the adventurous life of the first female member of the Royal Geographic Society, showcasing her daring explorations across the globe in the 19th century. Through vibrant illustrations, readers are invited to experience her remarkable journey as both an explorer and an author, celebrating her contributions to geography and women's roles in history.
- 2019
Get to know the steps, performances and dancers who added their signature style to the street dance movement. From Paula Abdul to Justin Timberlake to Jabbawockeez, Today's Street Dance: More than Locking and Freestyle Moves will have you air-walking, tutting and strutting your stuff.
- 2019
Get to know the steps, performances, and dancers who added their signature style to the hip-hop movement. From DJ Kool Herc who started it all to Michael Jackson's Moonwalk to DM Nation, an all-female hip-hop crew, Today's Hip-Hop: Beyond Breaking and Power Moves will have you popping, locking and spinning on the dance floor.
- 2018
Simone Biles: Gymnastics Star
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
The book explores the inspiring journey of Simone Biles, highlighting her remarkable achievements as one of the top female athletes in the nation. It delves into her childhood, detailing the obstacles she faced and the perseverance that led her to excel in gymnastics. Through her story, readers gain insight into her resilience and the milestones that define her career.
- 2018
Focusing on the inspiring journey of Maya Moore, the book delves into her childhood and the obstacles she faced on her path to becoming one of the nation's top female athletes. It highlights her remarkable achievements in basketball, showcasing her determination and resilience. Through her story, readers gain insight into the life of a dedicated athlete who has made a significant impact both on and off the court.
- 2018
A boy sets out to find a walrus only to make a new friend in this heartwarming, funny picture book by Lori Mortensen with art by Matt Phelan, creator of the New York Times bestseller Snow White.
- 2016
Cowpoke Clyde Rides the Range
- 32 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Cowpoke Clyde finds himself perplexed after seeing an ad for a bike, questioning its necessity since he already has a horse. Intrigued by the idea of a bike that doesn't require feeding or can’t buck him off, he decides to order one. Upon receiving it, he attempts to ride but quickly discovers that biking is more challenging than he anticipated, with his loyal companion Dawg by his side to assist him. This humorous tale explores themes of curiosity and the learning process.