This exciting new graphic novel by a debut team is the first graphic novel ever to be shortlisted for the Ampersand Prize for an unpublished manuscript. In Inked, an opera-singing octopus shows up at a family-owned fish shop in a small town that is somewhere in Australia – but nowhere near the ocean. Sid, a 12-year-old kid, has just been accepted into art school when the octopus shows up at his family’s fish shop, but his primary concern is the school fees. The kid and the octopus reluctantly team up, trying to help each other with their unique struggles while enduring various dramas, including unkind classmates and an Idol style talent show.

A quick summary of the plot makes this book sound completely absurd, but readers will be surprised and delighted by thoughtful character development, witty dialogue, and Jake A. Minton’s warm, polished artwork. Inked is a strangely compelling reading experience with a filmic style and energy. An excellent, wildly entertaining read for ages 9+.