Left to mind the eggs while the penguin moms are on a fishing vacation, four bored penguin dads decide to pack up the eggs (in what look like bags for bowling balls) and head to New York to play some cool jazz. Despite never learning how to play any instruments, or even listening to jazz (they first hear it on the airplane en route to the States), Max, Herbie, Charlie and Miles are an instant smash. The high lifeAstaying at the Waldorf Astoria, guzzling cod liver oil, appearing on the cover of Rolling StoneAcomes to an end when the eggs start to hatch, and the quartet rushes back to the South Pole. This thoroughly silly tale from a Swedish team will amuse those who enjoy loose logic and ready wish-fulfillment. Peterson's illustrations are busy with amusing touches, like the stumpy quartet resting their bills on the hotel's front desk and wearing trendy clothes on what appears to be the David Letterman show. A spread of scrapbook snapshots adds a note of nostalgia to the caper. Ages 5-8.
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
Kindergarten-Grade 3-Four dapper penguin dads decide it is boring to just sit around the South Pole while waiting for their little ones to hatch so they pack up the eggs and fly to New York City to play cool jazz. Though one of the eggs is briefly lost, no other obstacles stand in the way of their success. The Penguin Quartet becomes famous. When one of the eggs begins to hatch during a talk show, all four fathers race off and return home just in time for the big event. The text has a pleasant, relaxed flippancy that some children find appealing. The crisp, boldly colored, stylized cartoons are packed with clever details. Adults will likely spot a few celebrities in caricature on the pages though most children will not. Good readers will enjoy experiencing this jazzy adventure alone but beginning readers and those with limited exposure to penguins, music, or NYC may need help appreciating what The Penguin Quartet has to offer.
Jody McCoy, The Bush School, Seattle, WA
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
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