Books About Squids

The Best Squids Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for our other guide?

Explore our editor-reviewed guide to Sea Creatures, featuring 10 favorites and recommendations by age.

View the guide

Looking for excellent children's books about squids? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

Tentacles!
#9 in Series
Fish Feud!
#1 in Series
Graphic Nov.
Splatoon: Squid Kids Comedy Show, Vol. 1 (Graphic Novel)
#1 in Series
Graphic Nov.
The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Squids

Sale price
$574
Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2003

Tentacles!

By Shirley Raye Redmond, Bryn Barnard (Illustrator)

Uncover the truth behind the legendary giant squid of the deep sea.

48 pages· 834 words· Est. 7 min read-aloud
4.2/5 Goodreads · 108 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Dive into the mystery of the giant squid, a legendary sea creature said to chase ships and battle whales. Weighing up to 1,000 pounds with eyes as big as a human head, is this monster fact or fantasy? Embark on an exciting journey to discover the truth behind these age-old tales.
Chapter Book · Ages 7–10 · 2023

Search for a Giant Squid

Embark on a deep-sea quest to find the elusive giant squid. Choose wisely; each decision shapes your adventure.

96 pages
4.3/5 Goodreads · 186 ratings
$14.99Save 7%
Hardcover
Summary: Dive into the ocean's twilight zone on a thrilling quest for the elusive giant squid. As part of a deep-sea expedition, you'll choose your submersible, pilot, and dive site. Each decision leads to a unique path filled with discoveries about marine life and scientific exploration. Will you uncover the secrets of the deep or face unexpected challenges? This interactive adventure not only entertains but also introduces young readers to the fascinating world of marine zoology and the diverse team behind every expedition. Perfect for curious minds eager to explore STEM and the mysteries of the ocean.
Picture Book · Ages 6–10 · 2015

Giant Squid

By Candace Fleming, Eric Rohmann (Illustrator)

A book about giant squid and their mysterious lives in the deep sea.

Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Honor (2017)Cybils Award (2016)Charlotte Zolotow Honor (2017)Orbis Pictus Honor (2017)
40 pages· 498 words· Est. 4 min read-aloud
4.3/5 Goodreads · 1,582 ratings
$19.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Dive into the enigmatic world of the giant squid, a creature as large as whales yet hidden in the ocean's depths. Scientists piece together its story from tantalizing clues: scars on whales, broken beaks, and inky escapes. These fragments were all we had until a groundbreaking film captured the squid in its natural habitat. This nonfiction picture book invites you to explore the mysterious life of this elusive giant, blending visual and poetic storytelling. What secrets does the deep sea hold, and what more can we discover about this hidden titan of the ocean?
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2022

Octopus Shocktopus!

By Peter Bently, Steven Lenton (Illustrator)

An octopus lands on a roof, befriends kids, then vanishes. Will it return?

32 pages· 389 words· Est. 3 min read-aloud
5.3/7 Bookroo·4.2/5 Goodreads · 407 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: An octopus mysteriously falls from the sky, landing on a village roof. While children embrace their new friend, adults remain skeptical. The octopus becomes a beloved helper, painting walls and rescuing cats. Just as the villagers grow fond of their unexpected guest, it vanishes without a trace. Where did it go, and will it ever return? Dive into this whimsical tale to uncover the mystery.
Chapter Book · Ages 6–9 · 2014

Stink and the Shark Sleepover

By Megan McDonald, Peter Reynolds (Illustrator) · Book #9 in the Stink series

A young boy named Stink goes on a sleepover at an aquarium with his friends and family.

176 pages· 10,046 words· Est. 2 hour read
4.1/5 Goodreads · 741 ratings
$14.99Save 7%
Hardcover
Summary: Stink and his friends are thrilled about an aquarium sleepover, complete with scavenger hunts and jellyfish shows. But as night falls, eerie tales of a mutant squid named Bloody Mary stir their imaginations. Can Stink sleep knowing a glowing Frankensquid might be prowling the dark waters? Dive into a night of adventure and mystery where science meets spine-tingling suspense.
Chapter Book · Ages 9–10 · 2012

Giant Squid

A hidden sea monster eludes scientists, leaving scars and mysteries in its wake.

48 pages· 5,682 words· Est. 48 min read
4.1/5 Goodreads · 160 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: In the shadowy depths of the ocean, a colossal creature stirs—a giant squid, nearly 50 feet long, with tentacles that leave scars on its foes. Despite its size, it remains a mystery, rarely seen by human eyes. Ocean scientist Clyde Roper has dedicated his life to uncovering the secrets of this elusive beast. What truths lie beneath the waves? Why does this creature evade capture and understanding? Join Roper and his team as they dive into the unknown, seeking answers to the enigma of the giant squid. Will they finally reveal the secrets of this legendary sea monster?
Picture Book · Ages 3–5 · 2012

Squid and Octopus: Friends for Always

Undersea friends Squid and Octopus navigate quirky disagreements and heartwarming moments together.

40 pages· 907 words· Est. 7 min read-aloud
5.0/7 Bookroo·4.0/5 Goodreads · 1,295 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Dive into the whimsical world of Squid and Octopus, best friends navigating the ocean's depths. From debating the best way to keep their tentacles warm to finding joy in everyday adventures, these two sea creatures face life's little challenges with humor and heart. When Squid dreams of being a superhero, Octopus is there to lift his spirits. As they ponder the mysteries of a fortune cookie, their bond proves unbreakable. Will their friendship weather every wave? Discover the delightful tales of camaraderie and laughter in this charming collection of undersea stories.
Chapter Book · Ages 7–10 · 2020

Fish Feud!

A young squid named Squizzard navigates the challenges of friendship and growing up in a coral reef school.

96 pages· 2,706 words· Est. 31 min read
3.9/5 Goodreads · 309 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Squizzard, a lively squid, loves being the hero in every game with his best friend, Toothy. But his bossy ways push Toothy too far, creating a deep rift. As Squizzard faces loneliness at Deep Reef Elementary, can he learn from his mistakes and win back Toothy's friendship? Dive into this underwater tale of friendship, growth, and second chances.
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2017

Splatoon: Squid Kids Comedy Show, Vol. 1 (Graphic Novel)

Join new Inklings on wild adventures in the Splatoon universe.

128 pages
3.8/5 Goodreads · 120 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Dive into the vibrant world of Splatoon where new Inklings lead the charge in a series of zany adventures. As they navigate colorful challenges and unexpected twists, friendships are tested and hilarity ensues. Will these young heroes conquer the chaos of their world, or will they be swept away by the tide of their own antics? Discover the unpredictable journey that awaits in this action-packed, ink-splattered saga.
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2008

I'm the Best Artist in the Ocean!

A giant squid's artistic masterpiece causes unexpected chaos in the ocean.

24 pages
3.6/5 Goodreads · 654 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: The ocean's biggest squid returns, boasting his artistic prowess by creating a grand ink masterpiece. But as he splashes his creativity across the sea, his fellow marine creatures might not be as impressed as he hopes. Will his artistic ambitions lead to admiration or chaos? Dive into this vibrant tale to discover the surprising reactions of his underwater audience.
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Browse by age

Squids Picture Books

Illustrated read-alouds about squids for preschool and elementary-age readers.

After Squidnight

Ages 4–8 · 2020

Midnight squids invade, leaving inky chaos and art behind.

Octopus or Squid?

Ages 5–8 · 2020

Discover the fascinating differences between octopuses and squids.

Squids

Ages 4–8 · 2006

Discover the secret lives of squids and their unique defenses.

Who Would Win? Whale vs. Giant Squid

Ages 6–9 · 2012

A sperm whale and a giant squid fight in the ocean, but who will win?

Stubby the Fearless Squid

Ages 5–9 · 2019

A timid squid's tall tales lead to real danger. Can he find true courage when it matters most?

Sale price
$1799

I'm the Biggest Thing in the Ocean!

Ages 4–8 · 2007

A giant squid discovers he's not the biggest in the ocean.

View all squids picture books
Browse by age

Squids Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about squids for developing and independent readers.

Splatoon: Squid Kids Comedy Show, Vol. 2
#2 in Series
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$999

Splatoon: Squid Kids Comedy Show, Vol. 2

Ages 8–12 · 2018

Join wild adventures in the Splatoon world with new allies and unexpected challenges.

Splatoon: Squid Kids Comedy Show, Vol. 4
#4 in Series
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$1199

Splatoon: Squid Kids Comedy Show, Vol. 4

Ages 8–12 · 2020

Join Inklings on wild, wacky adventures in Splatoon.

Splatoon: Squid Kids Comedy Show, Vol. 5
#5 in Series
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$999

Splatoon: Squid Kids Comedy Show, Vol. 5

Ages 8–11 · 2020

Dive into wild, ink-splattered adventures in the Splatoon universe.

Splatoon: Squid Kids Comedy Show, Vol. 3 (Graphic Novel)
#3 in Series
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$999

Splatoon: Squid Kids Comedy Show, Vol. 3 (Graphic Novel)

Ages 8–12 · 2019

Join the Inklings in wild, new battles and hilarious adventures.

Splatoon: Squid Kids Comedy Show, Vol. 6 (Graphic Novel)
#6 in Series
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$999

Splatoon: Squid Kids Comedy Show, Vol. 6 (Graphic Novel)

2021

Dive into wild escapades with iconic video game heroes.

Fiercest Feuds

Ages 6–9 · 2022

Which animal reigns supreme in epic battles? Discover the ultimate showdown.

Class Clown Fish: A Graphix Chapters Book

Ages 6–8 · 2021

A prank gone wrong forces Squizzard to transform a junk-filled basement. Can he uncover hidden treasures?

Splatoon, Vol. 11
#11 in Series
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$999

Splatoon, Vol. 11

2021

Inklings face fierce rivals in a high-stakes Turf War showdown.

Splatoon, Vol. 12
#12 in Series
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$999

Splatoon, Vol. 12

2021

Inklings face Turf Wars' climax and a new adventure begins.

Prank You Very Much: A Graphix Chapters Book
#3 in Series
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$799

Prank You Very Much: A Graphix Chapters Book

Ages 7–10 · 2022

A group of students at Seaweed Elementary School navigate Prank Week and a talent show while learning about fractions and teamwork.

The Boy Who Cried Shark

Ages 6–9 · 2013

A boy cries shark too often. Will anyone believe him when danger is real?

Squid-napped!

Ages 6–9 · 2013

A young shark's quest for independence leads to a giant squid encounter.

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