When a young girl looks out her apartment window one day, she finds that a massive octopus has taken up residence on the roof of her building. This octopine visitor disconcerts the residents at first, but his neighborly ways - helping to wash cars, holding open doors, providing a swing for the building's children - soon win them over. The girl is particularly fond of the octopus, and invites him to visit her class during their upcoming show-and-tell session. Dismayed when he disappears the next day, she is overjoyed when he reappears at the end of the week - this time on the roof of her school!

The second picture-book I have read that is illustrated by the marvelously talented Brazilian artist Rogério Coelho - the first was Books Do Not Have Wings, by Brynne Barnes - Roof Octopus is a visually stunning title, featuring gorgeous illustrations. I loved the use of color here, and the many little designs on the octopus' tentacles, which give them a lovely textured appearance. The story itself was entertaining - it helps, of course, that I am a huge fan of octopodes! - and will keep young listeners engaged. Recommended to anyone looking for imaginative and humorously surreal picture-book adventures, in the vein of such titles as Billy Twitters and His Blue Whale Problem. ( )

I am a softie for octopus-themed books, so I was already predisposed to this story about a girl who wakes up one day to find an octopus on top of her apartment building. The octopus turns out to be quite friendly and helpful until it abruptly leaves one day. The warm, intricate and detailed illustrations are excellent. ( )