'I'd Ask My Friends To Come And Read An Octopus's Garden With Me': Ringo Gives Permission For Children's Book
With its noodly, upbeat opening and innocent subject matter, 'Octopus's Garden' from 1969s _Abbey Road_is an ideal choice for an adaptation to children's picture book illustrated by Ben Cort (Aliens Love Underpants, Pigs Can't Fly!).
Ringo Starr, former drummer for The Beatles, has given permission for the song he wrote whilst on holiday in 1968 to be used as a lyrical base-text with "illustrations that revel in the imaginative opportunities presented by the lyrics", according to Ingrid Selberg at Simon & Schuster UK, who describes the opportunity as "a dream come true."
Regarding his decision, Starr has said in a message to fans "It gives me great pleasure to collaborate with Ben Cort and Simon & Schuster for the further adventures of Octopus's Garden. Peace and love."
On a Sardinian holiday in the 60s, Starr picked up inspiration for the lyrics when he learned of Octopus behavioural traits: "they go round the seabed and pick up stones and shiny objects and build gardens," adding he was struck by a longing to join them: 'How fabulous!' Because at the time I just wanted to be under the sea too. I wanted to get out of it for a while."
According to Simon & Schuster's press release, they'll publish the book as a "stunning hardback edition plus CD, with audio content to include an original, previously un-heard music track from Ringo and a reading of the story."
Now groovy parents can pass on their love of The Beatles with a beautiful, child-friendly song and colourful visual accompaniments. Quick! Before they get into rap.
'Oh what joy for every girl and boy...'
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