Many Things Under a Rock

“Fascinating. Scheel’s unique perspective on these animals, his evocative writing, and his engagement with the traditional cultures of Alaska make this the deepest of octopus books.” – Peter Godfrey-Smith, author of Other Minds: The Octopus, the Sea, and the Deep Origins of Consciousness“An accessible and nuanced exploration of the lives of these intriguing invertebrates.… An engaging read.” – Dan Blustein - Science“In Scheel’s many years of study and discovery for Many Things Under a Rock, indigenous science and stories are given equal weight with Western science.… The book abounds with wonders.… It is the elegance of an octopus’s movement, the shape-shifting and colouration of the creatures, that Scheel finds so beguiling.” – Kathleen Jamie - New Statesman“Page-turning natural history.… The author’s passion for octopuses, combined with his accessible language and vivid descriptions of his encounters, creates a memorable book that is sure to appeal to fans of underwater adventures and anyone who enjoyed the film My Octopus Teacher. Laurel Scheel’s simple yet elegant illustrations complement the text. A heartfelt and enlightening look at one of Earth’s most curious creatures.” – Kirkus Reviews, starred review“Fascinating.… A complex portrait of a surprising animal.” – Publishers Weekly

David Scheel, professor of marine biology at Alaska Pacific University, has researched the behavior and ecology of octopuses for over twenty-five years. He starred, with Heidi the Octopus and his daughter Laurel, in PBS’s Octopus: Making Contact. He lives in Anchorage, Alaska.