Frankie and Octo sitting together on a sunny beach at sunset

STORIES FOR CURIOUS LITTLE EXPLORERS

Children’s Picture Books for Little Explorers

Meet Frankie and Octo, two curious friends featured in children’s picture books filled with discovery, friendship, and adventure.

Explore the Books

MEET THE CHARACTERS

Meet Frankie & Octo

Two curious friends. One adventure after another.

Meet Frankie

Frankie is a curious little explorer always ready for a new discovery. He loves asking big questions and following his imagination across the ocean deep.

Meet Octo

Octo is Frankie's best friend and favorite adventure buddy. Kind, playful, and incredibly smart, he is always ready to help Frankie solve mysteries of the sea.

Free Children’s Picture Book Activities

Print, play, color, and explore with Frankie & Octo.

Underwater Map Puzzle

Help Frankie and Octo find their way through an underwater adventure with this fun printable puzzle.

Explore Activities

Octo, the friendly blue octopus from the Frankie and Octo books

Octo’s Ocean Activity

Color, match, and play with Octo in this fun ocean-themed printable activity.

Explore Activities

Frankie, the young blond explorer from the Frankie and Octo books

Frankie’s Story Journal

Draw, write, and imagine your own adventure with Frankie in this printable story journal.

Explore Activities

Libraries & Schools

We are excited to partner with educational institutions to bring Frankie & Octo's adventures to your classroom. Our books are available for school library borrowing and can be requested through your local library system.

Interested in Frankie & Octo for your school or library? Contact Kathy to learn more about book availability, classroom resources, or author visits.

Contact Kathy

Kathy Carstenson reading a Frankie and Octo picture book with children

Meet Kathy Carstenson

Kathy Carstenson is a storyteller and illustrator who believes every child has a unique adventure waiting to be discovered. Inspired by the vast, mysterious ocean, she created Frankie & Octo to spark curiosity and wonder in young readers. Her playful illustrations bring the characters to life, making every page a vibrant exploration of friendship and discovery.

Kathy Carstenson — Children’s Book Author

Discover the Frankie & Octo series