Ethel the Penguin – at a glance
The School Reading Lists’ five word review: impulsive, cheeky, speedy, skateboarding penguin.
Children’s book title: Ethel the Penguin.
Children’s author: Ursula Dubosarsky.
Children’s illustrator: Christopher Nielsen.
Genre: Picture book.
Published by: Allen & Unwin.
ISBN: 9781761181375.
Recommended for children aged: 3-6 year-olds.
First published: Paperback October 2024.
This children’s book is ideal for: helping children to embrace differences.
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Our review:
An impulsive, cheeky, speedy, skateboarding penguin, spinning around on ceiling fans and with a love of Ferris wheels. Who wouldn’t want a wild, fun penguin living next door in an iceberg semi-detached?
This funny, rhyming verse follows Ethel through her chaotic day at school, missing tea, and running off to the fair. The story touches on themes of culture and acceptance, showing that while Ethel and her behaviours may be different, that’s perfectly okay. Although Ethel is hectic, she’s also fun and has a kind heart.
Most pages start with “Ethel the penguin” in some form, giving the story a familiar, repetitive, rhythmic feel that young children aged 3–6 will enjoy. The bright, colourful illustrations highlight the humour of Ethel’s antics in this entertaining tale of the very naughty Ethel the Penguin.
Many thanks to Allen & Unwin for the review copy.
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Browse our list of Books for EYFS.
