*Flora and the Penguin by Molly Idle

This book is a “Best of the Best” pick from our Winter Book Fair. CLICK HERE to see more gift ideas!

*Flora and the Penguin by Molly Idle. Chronicle Books, 2014. 32 pages.

• Reading Level: Picture Books, ages 0-4
• Recommended for: Ages 0-8

Beginning on the title page, Idle uses soft illustrations full of movement to tell the story of Flora and her new friend, a penguin, as they skate across a frozen landscape. Wordlessly, the pictures show Flora and the penguin’s introduction, their initial friendship, a difference of opinion, and a glorious resolution. Friendship takes work, and Flora does an admirable job of putting others’ interests first. A wintry blue and white palette with bursts of sunny yellow draws the reader in; an innovative use of lift-the-flap features furthers the plot. A strong follow-up to Idle’s 2014 Caldecott Honor-winning Flora and the Flamingo, this new story will appeal to both boys and girls.

Cautions: none

Overall Value: 5 (out of 5)

• Moral/worldview value: 5
• Artistic value: 5

Categories: Starred Review, Picture Books, Gift Books, Character Values, Wordless Books

Cover image from amazon