Penguin

By Author / Illustrator

Polly Dunbar, Polly Dunbar

Genre

Adventure

Age range(s)

Publisher

Walker Books Ltd

ISBN

9781406373318

Format

Paperback / softback

Published

02-03-2017

Synopsis

A penguin turns out to be the perfect present in this beautiful 10th anniversary edition of an award-winning classic.

\"This heart-warming book conjures imagination, anger, danger and love, while encouraging small children to remember events, read pictures and laugh\" The Sunday Times

A stunning 10th anniversary edition of a modern classic from Polly Dunbar, the creator of Hello Tilly. This is the story of Ben, who couldn't be more delighted to find a penguin friend inside his present. \"Hello, Penguin!\" he says. Penguin says nothing. Ben tickles Penguin, pulls his funniest face, puts on a happy hat, sings a silly song and does a dizzy dance ... but still Penguin says nothing. It isn't until a passing lion intervenes that Penguin finally speaks - and, when he does, Ben discovers that some things are worth the wait. Shortlisted for the Kate Greenaway Medal and the winner of numerous other awards, this is a beautiful edition to share and treasure with a foreword and gorgeous gold foil on the cover and spine.

Reviews

When Ben gets Penguin as a gift, he is delighted. However, no matter what Ben does, he cannot get a reaction from his new companion. In the end, he learns that when Penguin does speak, it's worth the wait! I can't believe this story is ten years old! With its timeless charm, it is as fresh today as it was when it first came out. Deceptively simple on their unclutted white backgrounds, Polly Dunbar's illustrations are delightful. The contrast between Ben's expressions as he becomes more and more frustrated and Penguin's blank stare is perfect. Penguin shows himself to be a true friend- not one who is showy or makes a lot of noise, but one who is there in times of need and one who takes things in and reflects on them. In the end, Ben comes to see his new friend's worth and to appreciate him for what he is! A firm favourite in classrooms, 'Penguin' is a fantastic book to use in school, offering many possibilities for working creatively in English and in other subjects. Picture book / Ages 3+ / Reviewed by Sue Wilsher, teacher.