Blending the magical with the highly practical, this surprising adventure finds Poseidon the plumber taking his "plumbing prowess" on an underwater exploration in the depths of the ocean. "From chatty seahorses to wise old lobsters", Poseidon encounters a multitude of sea creatures—including Oliver the Octopus, who takes such a liking to Poseidon and his work that, after enlisting his help with "a plumbing problem in the heart of the ocean,” Oliver joins as an apprentice. As Poseidon swims through the sea, taking in the bountiful life, he finds that his trade skills are just as needed under water as above it, whether he’s fixing a drain pipe or helping patch a leak in a submarine "tangled in a mass of seaweed.”

Highlighting the importance of helping others and providing educational information about ocean life, Vozzo creates an imaginative story featuring a resourceful plumber and lively characters that young readers will enjoy. Poseidon's friendly nature and his way with a wrench and plunger become legendary, suggesting to young readers that talent and learned, practical skills can take you where you want to go. Readers familiar with the Greek god of the sea will enjoy seeing the aptly named protagonist of this story flourish in his snorkel gear amid Nina Mkhoiani’s vibrant illustrations that showcase sea creatures, coral reefs, and other charming detail.

The art and layout, mostly in two-page panoramic spreads, is imaginative, with shell homes, bioluminescent sea sponges, a host of wide-eyed fish and crustaceans, and a faint, bubbly digital gloss suggesting the strangeness of life underwater. Even the eels look friendly, and Poseidon’s face communicates warmth even through his dive mask. The low stakes of the tale may diminish some readers’ interest, especially as Poseidon’s actual plumbing action is more suggested by the text than compelling dramatization, with the illustrations emphasizing the milieu over any narrative drama. The result is an inviting hang-out story that offers fun under-the-sea vibes and friendship.

Takeaway: Sweet and chill undersea adventure of Poseidon the plumber, unclogging the depths.

Comparable Titles: Meeg Pincus's Ocean Soup, Kelly DiPucchio's Oona.

Production grades
Cover: B+
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: A-
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A-