Book Review: The Adventures of Zeppi: New Friends (book 1)
In the middle of the night, a mysterious red truck
races down Happy Town. Its cargo? Cages filled with penguins on their way to be
shipped to another country. Suddenly the doors fling open and one cage rolls
down the street and lands in a garden. From it, a little penguin steps out
fearfully, awed at the world around him. Up until now, he has only known the
constraints of the zoo.
In the morning, a boy named Alesdor discovers him and
decides to keep him. Naturally, they immediately click and become the best of
friends. Though the little penguin, Zeppi, is heartbroken from being separated
from the rest of his family, he finds warmth and affection in Alesdor, who is
as anxious for a friend as his new companion.
This children’s book by first-time Belgian author C.K.
Omillin put a smile on my face throughout; not only because it’s about a
penguin (and who doesn’t love penguins?), but because the story is sweet and weaves
elements of friendship, family and ecological, planet-friendly values. This is
the first instalment in The Adventures of
Zeppi series and the beginning of their escapades. The adorable
illustrations in soft pastel colors complement the story perfectly. This isn’t
the standard picture book for 3-7 year olds that has short text and includes
artwork on almost every page, but rather a picture book for slighter older kids
(ages 6-9), who can handle longer stories. Still, there are 13 illustrations in
this book, many of them spot illustrations.
I’m really looking forward to reading the next book in
the series. The Adventures of Zeppi is
sure to become a favourite of children, especially those who love penguins. C.K.
Omillin is definitely an author to keep your eye on.
Comments