"Funny family-centred mystery dappled with delightful whimsy"
Richly rewarding for 7-year-olds to enjoy by themselves, and a joy to read aloud to 5+ year-olds, Iona Rangeley’s Einstein the Penguin debut is packed with comic capers, compassion and relatable family dynamics as it tells a wonderfully whimsical tale of an attempt to reunite a pair of flightless feathered friends.
The adventure begins when the Stewart family decide to stave off December chills with a visit to London Zoo and find themselves drawn to a little penguin. Later that evening, said penguin (who turns out to be called Einstein) turns up at their front door with a rucksack. Naturally the Stewarts take him in, pending returning him to his rightful home. The question is, where is Einstein’s home? The initial investigations of would-be detective Imogen reveal that he wasn’t supposed to be in London Zoo at all. As Imogen ups her sleuthing game, her younger brother Arthur finds confidence and friendship through Einstein, and the family embark on an exhilarating quest.
With charming, witty illustrations from David Tazzyman (he of Mr Gum fame), this delightful adventure makes a magnificent modern-day alternative to Paddington, and is perfect for sharing as a family.
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