UQP acquires picture book edition of 'Odder: An Otter’s Story' by Newbery Medallist Katherine Applegate and illustrated by Charles Santoso

Adapted from the middle-grade verse novel of the same title, the story follows a playful sea otter pup named Odder whose life is turned upside down when she is separated from her mother during a storm. It is a poetic and heartwarming tale of resilience, healing and wildlife conservation.

UQP has acquired ANZ rights through a deal brokered by Charlotte Bodman at Rights People and will publish in May 2025.

Children’s Publisher Cathy Vallance says:

‘Katherine Applegate is one of my all-time favourite authors, so I jumped at the chance to add this exquisite book to UQP’s award-winning children’s list. Katherine’s lyrical text is perfectly matched with Charles’s evocative illustrations. Who could resist Odder’s gorgeous little face?’

Katherine Applegate says:

‘I’ve been lucky to collaborate with Charles Santoso on a number of books, but this may be my favorite yet. With his magical ability to capture the essence of an animal, adults and children alike are going to be captivated by these illustrations. And because this book is based on a true story about humans coming to the rescue of a beloved, endangered species, readers will come away feeling genuinely inspired and hopeful.’ 

Charles Santoso says:

‘I’m so happy to collaborate with Katherine Applegate and the team to bring the huggable Odder: An Otter's Story to life! The story is fun, full of heart, and also informative without being didactic. I hope readers will enjoy it as much as I enjoyed illustrating it.’

About Katherine Applegate

Katherine Applegate is a #1 New York Times–bestselling author who has written many children’s books, including The One and Only Ivan, which won a Newbery Medal; The One and Only Bob; Wishtree; Odder; and the Doggo and Pupper series. She is also the co-author, with Gennifer Choldenko, of Dogtown and Mouse and His Dog: A Dogtown Book. Katherine Applegate lives in Nevada with her loyal husband and her naughty dog.

About Charles Santoso

Charles Santoso loves drawing little things in his little journal and dreams about funny, wondrous stories. He is the creator of Happy Hippo and has illustrated many books, including Ida, Always, written by Caron Levis, which was praised by the New York Times as ‘an example of children’s books at their best’. He has also illustrated the New York Times bestsellers Wishtree and Odder, by Katherine Applegate. He currently lives in Singapore.

For more information, contact UQP Senior Publicist Sarah Valle on sarah.valle@uqp.com.au.