Saturday, 7 September 2024
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The Littlest Penguin on the page
3 min read

A new book, raising money for the Penguin Foundation, has been released.

The Littlest Penguin and the Phillip Island Penguin Parade was created in partnership with the Penguin Foundation and based on the amazing journey behind Phillip Island’s Penguin Parade.

It includes a non-fiction section with all you need to know about these wonderful little birds.

The book follows the ocean adventures of one of Phillip Island’s penguins.

The adorable little penguins come waddling and tumbling out of the water and up the hill, back to their burrows on the island … But where have they been? What adventures did they have?

Join Little Penguin, Scruffy, Cheeky and Big Chick as they go out to sea for the very first time and learn everything you need to know about the real-life penguins along the way.

Beautifully illustrated on every page and packaged as a small gift-hardback format, this is as irresistible as the cuddly little birds the story is based on.

The Penguin Foundation relies on charitable donations to continue their incredible work to protect Phillip Island's native wildlife; to maintain their wildlife clinic which helps all southern sea birds (not just penguins), to run education programs, as well as research and conservation efforts that threaten the colony.

Penguin Random House will be providing funding to the organisation that will be used for Little Penguin research projects and work contributing to Little Penguin protection, rescue, and rehabilitation.

Treasure trove

Jedda Robaard is an Australian author, illustrator and designer, based in Southern Tasmania. She has been writing and illustrating children’s books since 2011 and has more than 50 books published.

Her books are sold internationally and have been published in many languages.

The Littlest Penguin is a treasure trove for young minds, offering not only a captivating story but also a window into the fascinating world of the penguin.

With its unique blend of narrative and nonfiction, this book becomes more than just a tale—it's a companion for exploration and learning. A child can carry it with them, discovering the magic of Phillip Island and the incredible life of a Little Penguin, all within the pages of this special book.

Phillip Island Nature Parks Senior Research Officer Paula Wasiak worked alongside the Penguin Foundation and the book’s author and illustrator on the field research for The Littlest Penguin.

"Guiding the talented writer, Michelle Madden, and illustrator, Jedda Robaard, through the heart of the penguin colony allowed us to capture every subtle nuance of these tenacious birds’ lives – from their feeding habits to their distinct calls and behaviours,” Paula said.

“It was essential to provide an authentic portrayal of the Little Penguin's world, down to the last detail.

“This not only ensures a rich and accurate narrative for young readers, but also pays tribute to the remarkable ecosystem and environment that these resilient birds call home," Paula continued.

“The Penguin Foundation’s commitment to funding critical conservation and research projects on Phillip Island has played a huge role in protecting the precious natural haven and the incredible wildlife that inhabits it, including the much-loved Little Penguins.

“In partnership with Penguin Foundation and Penguin Random House, we are thrilled to bring 'The Littlest Penguin' to life, bridging the gap between the magic of storytelling and the urgent need to inspire the next generation of Earth's protectors.

“We hope this collaboration instils a greater love and respect for the environment from the people who read it.

“Together, we're creating a brighter, more sustainable future for Phillip Island and all its remarkable inhabitants."

The Littlest Penguin is published by Puffin and recommended for children aged 4 – 8 years.

RRP $24.99