Just So Stories

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

June 2025 | $ 26.99
ISBN: 9781486319664

To finish off this deep dive into our oceans and marine life is another fabulous title from CSIRO for which all your critter lovers will go wild.

Sid, like many kiddos, loves animals of all kinds and is always on the look-out for them. He thoroughly loves the thrill of ticking each new sighting off his ever-growing list. If it crawls or creeps, swims or swings. If it squeaks or squawks, if it meows or moos, then Sid’s up for it.

But of all the various creatures he has ticked off that list, his dearest wish is to see the amazing Colossal Squid, and he is determined to find one. The trouble is that while he’s focused on looking everywhere for this amazing creature, but being distracted by all the other terrific species he’s spotting, he’s just not noticing that it’s actually right behind him – next to him – underneath his boat – you get the picture.

Your readers will love the rhyming text and the fun cartoon illustrations, as well as, perhaps, discovering some unfamiliar animals. As with all CSIRO’s publications, it’s not only learning – it’s learning made fun. As you would expect there is very useful backmatter as well with straightforwad information on the colossal squid and a glossary.

The Kid and I have been to Queensland Museum more times than I can count ever since she was tiny. Now, not so much, but recently we were there for the Ancient Egypt exhibition, and just as we always have, we had to see the stick insects [numerous juveniles came home with us back in the day], the animal galleries and without a doubt, that giant squid that’s always such a drawcard with visitors. It may not be a live one in the wild but it sure is impressive!

Just like this book so I’m giving it a 5 🦑🦑🦑🦑🦑rating for your readers from around Year 3/4.

Relocating a Supersized Squid, Tentacles And All!

Giant squid: from the deep sea to display