When this book was first released, I was so enthralled that I read it aloud to a number of my twenty-something year old friends who were over for dinner. They were all left giggling by the end, forever solidifying my belief that picture books are not just for kids.
Whilst Polly’s illustrations are enough of a draw card for me, the story itself is also just so spot on. Each line is perfectly crafted to give big impact with few words, and when reading it aloud you cannot help but be expressive and animated.
Ben opens a gift on his birthday to find a penguin inside. He is ecstatic until he tries to talk to Penguin. But Penguin says nothing.
Ben gets cranky. Ben gets frustrated. Ben gets mean. But when Ben gets into trouble, will Penguin come to his rescue?
Penguin presents an unusual story of friendship with a delightfully outrageous sense of humour that will appeal to adults and kids alike.
Polly Dunbar is also the author/illustrator of the Tilly and Friends series, which is now an animated series on ABC4 Kids.
Title: Penguin
Author/Illustrator: Polly Dunbar
Publisher: Walker Books Australia, $16.95 RRP
Publication Date: 2008
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781406312461
For ages: 2+ years
Type: Picture book
