Utterly Otterly Day by Mary Casanova (Illustrated by Ard Hoyt)

Utterly Otterly Day was written by Mary Casanova and illustrated by Ard Hoyt. Little Otter is a "big otter" now, he doesn't have to listen to Mama and Papa anymore. Little Otter sets out to explore new areas and comes face to face with danger; teaching him that "he needs his family-- no matter how big he grows" (Casanova, 2008).

   Mary Casanova has created a cute, fun tale about a little otter who thinks he is 'big enough' to do whatever he wants. Her word choices are rhythmic and include some fun phrases like, "whippidy, slippidy, sail." 

   Utterly Otterly Day is ideal for preschool through first grade. Little Otter's adventures represent fantasy at work in this wonderful picturebook. 

   Ard Hoyt uses watercolors to perfectly capture the playful nature of Little Otter and his scenic surroundings. The movement of the water is beautifully illustrated. Children are sure to be drawn to the playful illustrations in Utterly Otterly Day. 

For Teachers: 

   Utterly Otterly Day can be used to teach students about otters, the importance about listening to their parents, and word play. Some activities could include: 

• Otters: Have students look at otters: what they eat, where they live, etc. 
• Word play: Have students create their own words like "slippidy" to express actions, emotions, and more. 
• Animals: Explore what environment animals live in. Little Otter lives in a burrow, what other animals live in burrows? 
• Discussion questions: Why do you think Little Otter didn't listen to his parents? What happened when Little Otter thought he was 'big enough' to be on his own? What other animals can we see in the book?   

My Thoughts: 

   I really enjoyed reading this book. It is one I will be reading to my son in hopes that he will enjoy it as well. The illustrations are beautiful and match perfectly with the story. I love how the book teaches kids that yes, there are some things they can do on their own, but they really aren't old enough to be on their own all the time. 

Additional Resources: 

Students may enjoy reading more of Little Otter's adventures in Utterly Otterly Night. 

National Geographic provides a good amount of information for teachers to use when teaching students about otters. 

The San Diego Zoo also has a great amount of information about otters and also has some video of them playing. 

Reference: 

Casanova, M. (2008). Utterly Otterly Day. New York, NY: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers.