Review by Booklist Review
Inspired by a penguin sighting in the Galapagos Islands almost two decades ago, author-photographer Bergman and his wife set out to visit the 18 known penguin species in their natural habitats. Having written books about nature and numerous wildlife-magazine articles, Bergman is practiced in the skills required for providing armchair naturalists with information and images that will spark their interest. Although the text is not always fluid, the photographs are extraordinary and unforgettable. Each of the three main sections--"Adventure: Mark of the Penguin," "Science and Extreme Conservation: Ten for Ten," and "Pilgrimage: A Pilgrim among Penguins"--includes short tales of the couple's encounters with various penguin species, descriptions of the locations they journeyed to, and, of course, the pictures. Bergman also provides a selected bibliography and a list of resources for those who want to get involved with organizations dedicated to protecting penguins and their threatened habitats. This is an entertaining and research-friendly penguin celebration.
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
Photographer Bergman (Wild Echoes: Encounters with the Most Endangered Animals in North America) shares his fascination with penguins in this visually impressive volume. Having first spied the birds "off the red-sand shores of" Rábida Island, one of the Gálapagos islands, nearly 20 years ago, he's been fascinated with them ever since and became determined to see each of the 18 different species in the wild. Bergman discusses their beauty and unique personalities, fondly writing of their combination of "dignity and awkwardness." The animals look like "little people with their flippers--or wings--like arms, and their characteristic and charming waddle." The book's most striking feature, however, consists of Bergman's photographs from his trips. He captures up-close images of various species in their natural habitats--erect-crested penguins in New Zealand, Magellanic penguins in Argentina, and king penguins on the Falkland Islands, among them. Bergman also connects with scientists, conservationists, birders, guides, and tourists in the field, championing environmental concerns. Readers will enjoy Bergman's enthusiastic recollections of his jaunts around the world and be astonished by his vivid photos. Agent: Elizabeth Wales, Wales Literary. (Apr.)
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Review by Library Journal Review
Author and photographer Bergman (A Penguin Told Me a Secret) and his wife, Susan, found their interest in penguins slowly turning to passion and obsession, culminating in a goal to see each of the 18 penguin species in the wild. Part travelog, part conservation, part philosophical musing, the book supplies ample, frequently adorable photos of every species, along with tales of wet, often cold, and occasionally uncomfortable adventures. VERDICT The quasihuman charm of penguins is hard to resist, and this title is sure to find its audience.
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