Passionate about penguins

K-Gr 4--Stunning illustrations and clear readable text combine to make this large format book about all types of penguins a sure hit with animal-loving patrons. Packed into 40 pages are whimsically titled chapters ("Born this Way," "Ice Ice Baby," and more) that cover penguin facts and fiction. Included is a fascinating spread devoted to penguin feathers, one showing 20 different types of penguins and how they compare in shape and size to an adult human, and a fun section devoted to penguin "awards" (Adélie penguins win for grumpiest and Macaroni penguins for most fashionable). The book ends with information on conservation and what young readers can do to ensure that penguin species thrive. The somewhat sophisticated text is aimed at middle grade readers, but younger children will love the book based on the colorful illustrations alone. The volume includes a table of contents and an index showing the scientific and common names of the penguins. Humans are shown in a variety of skin tones. VERDICT A beautiful book with wide appeal which would be an outstanding addition to any children's collection.--Sue Morgan