A little otter overcomes big fears in this gentle tale from Bedford. When Little Otter balks at diving with his mother to the ocean depths for dinner, she sets off to fetch it, leaving him within the security of the kelp and with the admonishment to stay put. However, like all curious tots, Little Otter’s inquisitive nature overcomes his mother’s cautions and he soon sets out to explore the sights around him. Little Otter’s encounters include a bevy of friendly animal nursery-minders in the form of a pelican, sea-lion family and a whale. However, when he drifts far from his home site, his adventure turns perilous. A timely rescue by mommy quickly sets all to rights before Little Otter, or young readers, can become too anxious. Bedford’s tale reminds young adventurers of the steadfastness of a mother’s love. Winter’s watercolor illustrations capture all the frisky cuddliness that is part and parcel of an otter cub. Engagingly rendered, the appealing depictions of sea life retain an element of realism. A comforting, if cautionary, tale. (Picture book. 3-6)
