Mock Newbery 2026 discussion

Our December book of the month is Odder by Katherine Applegate.

Is this a Newbery contender?

Fans of sea otters will learn alot about the strength, personality, and history of the current sea otter population. Told in free verse, with beautiful realistical illustrations by Charles Santoso, brave Odder is a precocious otter one cheers for against the perils of the California seacoast full of hungry sea creatures. The message about preserving the sea otter population through the heroic work of the Monteray Bay Sea Otter Rescue and Conservation program is inspiring. I loved this title, short, powerful, and exciting. Although the author has already earned a Newbery, this title deserves consideration too.

ODDER by Katherine Applegate is written in free verse that supplies the rhythm of the ocean. An otter pup is orphaned and she narrates the story of how aquarium staff teach her skills for survival in the wild. She is released into the ocean and lives there successfully for several years until an accident returns her to the aquarium. A well researched and realistic portrayal of how scientists work to save an endangered species. Similar to A ROVER’S STORY in mixing scientific details with a fictional narrative from an alternate point of view. Style and format make it very appropriate for a young reader.

I enjoyed this book I thought it was cute and fun. I had the opportunity to go to the Monetary Bay aquarium in 2013 and its a really cool place. I this is a book kids and adults will enjoy but I'm not sure it's quite Newbery worthy.

Agreed

I love anything by Katherine Applegate and this was no exception. I think it will appeal to many readers and also inspire them to read more about sea otters. That being said, I don’t see it as a Newbery contender.

When I first began Odder, I thought it was cute, but fairly shallow, so I really appreciated the twist that came with both otters learning how to mentor and mother others. It added more depth and complexity to the story and really deepened my knowledge of the work of the Monterey Bay Aquarium in a way that's great for kids. However, compared to past Newbery winners or even some of the other options to choose from this year, I don't think it's one of the stronger contenders for the medal.

Odder is a fun and quick read. I’m glad Applewhite brought attention to the sea otters but I don’t feel there is enough depth to the story. I don’t see it being a Newbery contender.

I think Katherine Applegate is a master at pacing middle grade novels and creating accessible stories in a manageable page count. Although this has become one of my favorites to suggest to my upper elementary students and I love seeing the world through Odder's eyes, I don't think the plot and setting are as distinguished as other 2023 Newbery contenders.