Ollie's First Year

It’s easy to find joy in a playful, agile creature that enjoys sliding on its belly. River otters are among the most adorable, charismatic animals in North America, and with a territory that spans the continent, they’re a far-reaching favorite. Ollie’s First Year is a lively wildlife adventure that captures the wonder and delight elicited by the playful otter.

The book follows Ollie the Otter through a year of new experiences, from swimming lessons to foraging practice, and through capers with his littermates. His budding knowledge of the world is put to the test when he is separated from his family and must travel through the forest alone. Luckily, a joyful reunion with his family awaits.

Longtime children’s book author Jonathan London and well-known Alaska illustrator Jon Van Zyle team up again to bring Ollie’s story to life with vibrant illustrations and text perfect for ages two to six. Notes about otter biology and habitat along with tips for keeping their environment safe will not only teach younger readers about wildlife but inspire them to protect it as well.

Jonathan London is a poet and the author of many picture books, including Gone Again Ptarmigan and Ollie's First Year both from University of Alaska Press, and the Froggy series. He lives in Graton, California.

Jon Van Zyle is an award-winning artist whose illustrations appear in many children’s books, including Gone Again Ptarmigan and Ollie’s First Year, both from University of Alaska Press. He lives near Eagle River, Alaska and is the official artist of the Iditarod.