One Cheeky Octopus by Alastair Chisholm

Meet Sylvester… a very cheeky octopus with very long tentacles and a big problem with sharing. When Sylvester spots his friends enjoying their games, he can’t resist joining in. One by one, his tentacles grab, nab and snatch every toy in sight, until no one is having fun at all.

This playful, laugh-out-loud counting story gently explores sharing, turn-taking and friendship, as Sylvester learns that fun is even better when it’s shared. With rhythmic text, bold illustrations and a clear counting structure, One Cheeky Octopus is perfect for interactive read-alouds and early numeracy.

Written by award-winning author Alastair Chisholm, this book combines humour, heart and learning in a way that young readers will want to revisit again and again.

Why we (and schools) love this book

• Supports early maths skills through clear, engaging counting embedded in the story.
• Encourages positive social behaviour, particularly sharing and empathy.
• Perfect for group reading, with humour and repetition that invite participation.

Written by Alastair Chisholm, Published by Hachette Children's Books
Paperback | 32 pages