AN OLD MAN AND HIS PENGUIN

A rescued penguin returns every year to see the man who saved him in this picture book.

João Pereira de Souza, an elderly Brazilian, discovers a dying penguin covered with oil on the beach. Over many days, he tenderly brings the bird—whom he names Dindim—back to health, hand-feeding him with sardines and cleaning him. They become companions: “He loved Dindim like a son. Dindim loved João as if he were another penguin.” João is understanding, though lonely, when Dindim swims away after nine months, and then surprised and delighted when the penguin eventually returns. The bird keeps coming back annually for monthslong visits. Based on a true story, the tale is beautifully told with poetic compression and well-chosen details. Christian, whose previous children’s book was Sienna, the Cowgirl Fairy (2017), brings out the sweet friendship and the penguin’s playful personality: “HONK, HONK! Dindim wagged his tail and waddled in circles.” The underlying lesson about compassion and good stewardship is subtle but effective; an author’s note explains the real-life circumstances. Reardon, who also illustrated the penguin-themed Noodles’ & Albie’s Birthday Surprise (2016), deftly captures the story’s charm and expressiveness.

A moving, affectionate, and joyful tale, all the more so for being true.