Penguin’s Christmas Wish, classic story & characters for the young set

People with small children know Penguin.  Penguin is the titular character in some of the books by Salina Yoon. Penguin is optimistic, curious, and resourceful, has lots of friends and sometimes does things with the family. Readers aren’t sure if Penguin is a boy or girl, they’re kind of like a starfish in that regard in that the penguin books are great for any kid. Penguin’s Christmas Wish is the latest entry in the franchise and has our flightless friend with his family where he’s forced to understand the true meaning of Christmas.

Penguin and the kids pack up the sled and take a trip from their frozen icy home to a place where they can decorate a pine tree. They find a great tree to decorate and Penguin is super excited to share the spirit of Christmas with the entire forest. All of the presents are put under the tree, but a big snow storm comes during the night and blows the gifs all over the place.

Adults may be at a point now where they say, stop; we’ve heard this before-and rightly so. Some books with a Christmas theme have those points where they teach children about the big picture of life, Christmas and what’s really important.  While adults know these lessons and have heard them presented in dozens of ways, children are still learning them.

When A Charlie Brown Christmas came out there were certainly stories that had told the same message, but that show (and book) did it in a way with classic characters. Penguin, due to the style and art of Salina Yoon, who has published more than 150 books, certainly has legions of fans and it’s only logical that her flagship character have a Christmas book.

Penguins’ Christmas Wish has the art that her fans love and is one that will immediately resonates with them. And by her fans I mean children 2-7, they’re a rabid group of young readers, picture book page turners or pre-K kids who are learning the alphabet. That demographic will really enjoy the book. Our 7 year old can read the book, likes to look at the illustrations and it makes him feel good to know that it’s one that he can do by himself.  For adults, Penguin’s Christmas Wish doesn’t break new ground, but for the age that the book is targeted towards it hits the sweet spot.