When deep-sea diver Captain Samofar runs into trouble with a shark, he is rescued by a helpful and kindhearted octopus named Emile. So begins a beautiful friendship, as Samofar invites his rescuer to live with him on land, where the intrepid octopus discovers his musical talent, rescues many people while working as a lifeguard, and aids the police in capturing a band of smugglers. But although his on-land life is a success, Emile longs for his home in the ocean, and must eventually return to the deeps...

An engaging story of friendship between two very different individuals, Emile is one of French author/artist Tomi Ungerer's earlier picture-books - it was first released in 1960 - and was originally published in English in New York. I appreciated the message, implicit in the story, that friendship can bridge significant differences, and found Emile an immensely appealing hero. It helps, of course, that I have been reading a bit about octopus intelligence recently, and find these creatures immensely interesting. Recommended to Tomi Ungerer fans, and to anyone looking for fun children's stories focusing of the theme of friendship. ( )

I wanted to read Emile by Tomi Ungerer after reading Crictor. Both are picture books about unusual friendships between exotic animals and people. Emile, as the cover shows, is an octopus.

The book opens with Captain Samofar having his life saved by Emile. The captain invites the octopus home and he agrees. For a while he is content to live in a bath tub of salt water. But soon he wants more from life.

While above the sea, Emile tries a number of things including working as a lifeguard and fighting crime. All the adventure, though, wears on one. Even a brave octopus might crave a quiet life eventually.

It's a charming book about friendship, adventure and being true to oneself. The book is currently out of print but is worth tracking down. ( )