Customer Reviews

Pierre the Penguin

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Did you know that April 25th is World Penguin Day? It correlates with the beginning of the annual northward migration of penguins. Missed it? Don't feel bad, we did too (stomach flu). But for penguin loving families, any day is a good day to learn about penguins and if you want to keep a picture book in mind that comes along with a teaching guide for educational extension possibilities, Pierre the Penguin is where it's at.

You might be familiar with Pierre's true story if you and your family have watched the bonus disc that comes in the latest boxed set of March of the Penguins on DVD. That is where we first saw Pierre and his special situation. Dealing with feather breakage and loss Pierre was scaring the other penguins in his zoo habitat, and wasn't able to swim due to the lack of insulating feathers. Thankfully, an aquatic biologist came to his rescue, and Pierre the Penguin is his story told in simple, child-friendly rhyming text that quickly engages young listeners.

The blocky text style with only a few words on each page against the large realistic illustrations make this title particularly engaging. I love Marzollo's use of action and sound words that really draw my preschoolers in. This inspiring story is also great reading for budding young scientists with a longing to make a difference in the lives of troubled animals.

A question and answer section by Pam Schaller (the aquatic biologist who worked with Pierre) is included for children who'd like to learn more, and the full teaching guide is available for free online.

I purchased 2 of these books, one for my granddaughter in Oklahoma and a co-workers daughters. Since I live just across the Golden Gate from the Academy of Sciences, I thought it would be a neat gift for all the girls. The story is one of great ingenuity and determination. The writing is easy to comprehend and the illustrations are absolutely beautiful. Such sweet story to be told. My co-workers daughters already convinced their grandmother to take them to see Pierre in person! More books like this are needed for the generations to come.

Based on a real story at the California Science Academy in Golden Gate Park San Francisco... Its really quite a good story for kids. Plus you can take the little one to see the actual museum and penguins if you are in the area.

My 6 year old loves penguins, & he loved reading this story. The illustrations are lovely, realistic, and heartwarming, as is the true story. Any child who loves stories about animals will enjoy this one. You'll feel great about giving this as a gift!

A true and adorable story about a penguin named "Pierre" at the California Academy of Sciences. Beautiful artwork and a story to make anyone happy. I recommend this book highly!