Reviewed by Sandi Wooton
‘I wish I could fly like all the other birds, twirling
and curling, swooshing and swirling in the wild west wind.’
Everyone knows that penguins can’t fly. But Vernon the
penguin refuses to listen. Ever since he hatched from the egg, he has wanted to
fly. So, he’s determined to find a way.
This amusing picture book from debut
author/illustrator Natashia Curtin will have children (and adults) laughing out
loud at Vernon’s crazy stunts as he tries to find a way to take flight.
After each failed attempt, Vernon’s family and friends
rally behind him, reminding him that penguins can’t fly, encouraging him to put
aside his un-penguin-like ambition, to focus on something else. But Vernon refuses to give up. With stubborn
determination, and a little help from the wise old penguin, Vernon finally
discovers how to solve his problem in a most unexpected way!
A penguin’s world can be an icy and dismal world. But
here we are focussing on the penguins’ activities which are cleverly portrayed
throughout this story. Natashia Curtin’s illustrations are delightful and
perfectly enhance the text. The snow-white background works extremely well, contrasting
with the characters in the book.
I was
pleasantly surprised to discover a range of different expressions on the
penguin’s faces. I also felt particularly
amused by the creative and comical flying contraptions Vernon utilised to help
him in his unsuccessful efforts to fly. Natashia Curtin skilfully draws us into
the story, keeping us interested until the very last page.
This picture book is suitable for children aged 3
years plus.
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