P p p p pick up a penguin .....

No, not the chocolate biscuit, something far more fulfilling and longer lasting.  This book....

Available from WHSmiths, Waterstones, Amazon etc
Richard & Judy Bookclub Pick 2020
Published by Transworld Publishers Ltd.

Hazel Prior has done it again.  I couldn't put this book down and it left me with a great need to own a fluffy baby penguin, so I ordered a toy one to bring me comfort (see below - you know I love teddies etc, he's soooooo soft). It will give me a lasting memory of the Antartic, global warming and nature in decline.

Everyone needs a Granny in their life right?  I haven't had one for most of my adult life but 'adopted' one or two older people over the years, sadly most are now gone.  One remains and is VERY much like Veronica in this book.  She would do exactly as this character has done by having one last adventure and using her money to good cause.

The story was both heartwarming and joyous intertwined with awkward moments and hard decisions.  The Antartic comes to life and I was right there in the midst of the penguin colony with Veronica and the scientists.  I really didn't want the book to end but couldn't help turning the pages to see what happened next.  

Patrick/Pip the orphaned penguin was adorable.  I was happy to know from the 'acknowledgements' that Hazel had researched at the Living Coasts centre in Torquay which I visited myself a few years ago, but sad to learn that it has now closed down and I wonder at where all the animals have been rehomed.

Our planet needs the David Attenborough's amongst us, not just to watch his programmes of how our planet has changed and what is becoming of our world, but it also needs activists and generous people to donate money where they can to keep the animal kingdom from extinction.

Away with the Penguins addresses this in a beautiful story of  hard lives, relationships and how money does not make us happy but can help a troubled world.  It will make you smile and ponder your own life and love of nature.

Five star review on Goodreads and Amazon.  

My (Eco friendly made) Pip saying hi from my writing room.