Away with the Penguins was one of my favourite books of 2020, so I was thrilled to be offered an ARC of Call of the Penguins, the sequel.

I was concerned I wouldn’t remember the previous book well enough, but reading Call of the Penguins was like coming home. It’s absolutely stuffed full of characters that I love (human and penguin). Veronica and Daisy are my favourites, but I love all the others too.

As before, the penguins run through the story, with their irrepressible characters, and ability to draw people together. It was fun to see a variety of different species this time.

I very much enjoyed the plot. It was great to delve deeper into the links between Veronica and Patrick. Away with the Penguins only really scraped the surface.

Overall, this was another beautiful, wonderful story, full of penguin (and human) goodness. I can’t really find the words to say how much I loved it, I would give it 10 out of 5 stars, if I could! My absolute favourite book of 2021.

I was given a free copy of this book, my opinions are my own.

Thanks to NetGalley for an early copy of this book.

Call of the Penguins follow Veronica and Patrick on their next steps of their lives. The book looks into family relationships... the good, the bad... and how to build one together. Sadly the book also looks into how humans are impacting the planet and the impact on wildlife including penguins.

87 year old Veronicais asked by Sir Robert Saddlebow to join him on a wildlife production on seabirds ...Veronica is to add a commentary to the penguin slots... The little penguins on Ginty Island, and the Rockhoppers in the Falklands. meanwhile her grandson Patrick is in Vancouver researching his late father's past.

Daisy who is recovering from cancer with her mum Beth joins Veronica on the Falklands as part of the I Wish programme, where she has sent in a request to visit the penguins.

Terry from the first book continues her blog on the penguins of Locket Island.

I felt it was necessary to read the first book to follow the different characters.

I absolutely loved Away With the Penguins so I was really excited about reading Call of the Penguins.

Veronica McCreedy is back with a bang and has been offered a presenting role alongside her inspiration, Sir Robert Saddlebow. Her grandson Patrick is back in the UK and wants to find out more about his father. Terry is worried about the future of the Locket Island Project.
Of course, it isn’t plain sailing for Veronica and revelations could tear friendships apart and threaten her role in the documentary.

There are a variety of settings this time, but the story is mainly set on the Falklands. The landscape is beautifully described, as are the penguins. You just can just visualise them and their personalities.

I felt there was a bit more going on in this book compared to Away With the Penguins, and that’s no bad thing. The main characters were all established in the first book for me and it was interesting to see how the various plot lines panned out. At one point I thought the story was going to go down quite a predictable route, but I was wrong, thankfully.

The story is so readable and heartwarming. I love the characters, the penguins and the landscapes.

On the whole, this is a heartwarming and enjoyable read. However, some parts of the story aren’t so cheerful, and I felt so sad for the characters.
The story delivers an important message about wildlife and the environment and it does make you stop and think.

I tried to make the book last but once I started reading in the evenings I was totally drawn in to the story and finished it quite quickly.

I would recommend reading Away With the Penguins first, as it establishes the characters so well. Call of the Penguins follows on from it, so it makes more sense if you’ve read AWTP. That’s not to say it wouldn’t read well as a stand-alone, but it’s more enjoyable if you’ve read AWTP.

I highly recommend this book and really enjoyed it. It’s the perfect book to read at this time of year.

Many thanks to Penguin Random House Transworld Publishers and NetGalley for an advance copy to review.

What I love the most about Hazel's book is the wisdom and learning.
I don't only read for pleasure but also find facts about different Penguin species! And for those who aren't familiar with the environmental problems, it's also a good eye opener.

Call of the Penguins follows the first book where Veronica ended up in the Locket Island. This time she's travelling to a completely different places where she meets i.a. Little Penguins (they're gorgeous blue birds from Australia and New Zealand! They look so beautiful, check them!) which stole my heart.

Patrick and Victoria learn more about their relative Enzo, receiving upsetting information about his life. We see how the relationships evolve, how the penguin projects need support and how deadly our mindless usage of plastic can be.

The ending is quite powerful.

I truly believe that people who read this book will change their habits and become better human beings.

I am so grateful to NetGalley and Black Swan for giving me an arc copy of Call of the Penguins. Having read Away with the Penguins, I was delighted when Hazel Prior wrote. a sequel. This could be read as a stand alone book, but I think it is better to read it after Away with the Penguins, as everyone’s background has been explained in it. I enjoyed catching up with Veronica, now 87, Patrick, Terry, Pip and the others. After spending time in the Antarctic with penguins in the first book, Veronica has been invited by a famous naturalist to help present a documentary on penguins in The Falklands, having first been to other penguin colonies in other countries. I did appreciate how Hazel brought up the subject of plastics, and the damage they cause to nature and animals. I found that particularly pertinent at present, and it was brought into the story in such a way that it didn’t cause offence.
I really enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it. Easy to read, interesting characters and a mix of pathos, humour, morality and typical events in life.

I found the book difficult to get into. As others have said, it is a sequel and best read after the first one. I may go back and do just that. I found the book a little repetitive in parts. Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC.

When I applied for a NetGalley copy of this book, I thought it would be useful to read the first novel. This one would have read well on its own, but I was pleased that I knew the background as it meant a better understanding of the characters and how Veronica came to be so obsessed with penguins..

Memory is a strong theme, its suppression, the feelings aroused when memories resurface, how it influences our behaviour and attitudes. Serious subjects are covered but with a light touch: what we humans can learn from spending time with non-human animals, relationships, illness, the climate crisis to name but a few. Readers are given a lot to think about but never in a preachy way.

Veronica is charming, forthright, forgetful but in denial about her memory lapses. Like all but one of the other characters, she is totally believable, the exception being Keith who refers to himself in the third person. I wonder why. I found it very irritating, but fortunately he's only a minor player.

Veronica speaks very correctly. Even when roused to an angry tirade, her vocabulary is impeccable, so I just couldn't get past her use of the term 'slime-ball' when referring to her ex-husband. Veronica surely would not use such a word, would she? It jarred.

All in all a very enjoyable novel, but I reserve 5 stars for great books, so just 4* for this one.

Veronica McCreedy, 87, is an absolute legend. From holding the imaginary title of litter picking queen of Ayrshire to penguin ambassador and saviour this slightly cantankerous, curmudgeonly octogenarian returns to star in another adventure featuring her favourite birds. Settled back into her comfortable home life at the Ballahays, with the ever obliging housekeeper/assistant Eileen on hand,Veronica has swapped penguin caring duties on Locket island for temporary guardianship of Daisy, 9 who’s recuperating following a gruelling battle with cancer. Grandson Patrick has remained in Antarctica at the research station, a project generously kept afloat by Granny V, volunteering and pursuing his romantic relationship with boss Terry who along with Mike and Dietrich are penguin fanatics and experts. But the Adelie penguins of Locket island, in particular Pip, are never far from Veronica’s thoughts. Remember the Penguins? How could she possibly forget them? So it’s simply marvellous then to receive an invitation from Sir Robert Saddlebrow, Veronica’s “favourite knight” to accompany him to Australia and the Falkland Islands where he’s filming his latest TV wildlife documentary, in which penguins play a starring role. Get ready for the plight of the penguins part 2 in which the antics and behaviour of Veronica’s flippered friends contrast well with the trials and tribulations of Ms McCreedy and her fellow penguin devotees.

Both the themes and characters in Away with the Penguins are responsible for the book’s popularity and success and in this sequel, which is just as special as its predecessor Hazel Prior has picked up where she left off. She’s added a mystery element alongside the recurring themes of the importance of family, friendship, love and enduring loss, the solving of which is entrusted to Patrick. Having hit a rocky patch in his relationship with Terry Patrick is taking time out to consider his future but first he must find answers to the questions that have been plaguing both himself and Granny V for many years, questions concerning Veronica’s beloved son and Patrick’s father Enzo. The results of his trip to Canada are shocking and surprising. I loved the balance between the gentle humour, the heartache and the drama in which “friends like the milk of human kindness can turn sour”. However, amid all the sorrow and stress and anxiety that threaten to derail one or two relationships and tarnish precious memories it’s the discovery of the hidden healing powers of nature and the ways it helps reconnect these characters to one another that is so joyous, uplifting and at times quite moving. Ingrained into the storyline is the belief that there’s always hope on the horizon, no matter the problems that continue to beset us.

Every character has been blessed with the ability to charm the reader even those hovering in the background like the lovely, gossipy but at least technology proficient Eileen! Do not underestimate this character who quietly copes with Veronica’s every demand from locating frequently mislaid items to proffering much needed cups of Veronica’s favourite Darjeeling tea to entertaining the energetic Daisy. But oh my goodness it’s wonderful to be back in the company of lipstick loving, handbag wielding, meddling Veronica, an endearing if rather formidable and old fashioned character who abhors modern ways, preferring to hang onto her traditional values but who still retains her spirit for adventure.Her use of the Queen’s English renders her voice archaic but is actually quite refreshing! Visions of Veronica standing amongst the Rockhoppers or Gentoos clutching her handbag speaking in her own inimitable style had me dissolving into giggles every time. The inclusion of a few new faces is most welcome. Sir Robert Saddlebrow who’s presumably been inspired by Sir David Attenborough is a fantastic character. His presence helps soften Veronica’s hard edges turning her insides gooey in much the same way as the penguins do which is funny and delightful, even managing to put a twinkle back in her eye, although their friendship isn’t all plain sailing! However it’s the inter generational friendship between Veronica and the recovering Daisy that’s so captivating and brings out the absolute best in Veronica. Any novel featuring this kind of friendship where the young learn from the old and vice verse is bound to win my seal of approval. Their pairing is divine! Daisy is a dote, a darling, her illness not dampening her inquisitiveness nor enthusiasm for life which is so infectious, inspiring and humbling. I liked how she quickly catches the penguin love bug from Veronica, befriending Petra the Rockhopper and Tony the Macaroni who are worthy substitutes for the absent Pip. Whilst she’s keen to become their human playmate, (even Petra can’t escape modelling one of Daisy’s friendship bracelets!) Daisy is also deeply sensitive to the plight of these creatures, and it’s this aspect of the storyline that in its sadness unites all those on Bolder Island, their troubles and woes temporarily paling into insignificance as they consider the wider implications of man’s disrespect for the planet.

If you’ve read Away With The Penguins you’ll find its underlying message regarding our destructive impact on the natural world and our climate along with our continued use of harmful plastics just as forceful. This may disappoint some readers who are possibly expecting something more or a little bit different from the first book but I’m guessing the author is of the opinion there’s no harm in reiterating such a vital message. It certainly made me feel guilty that I don’t do more towards looking after/saving our planet and I felt suitably chastised. I was happy to overlook the similarities between both storylines thanks to the wonderful characters who adorn the pages. I wanted more of the same and that’s exactly what the author delivers. Obviously it helps that Veronica McCreedy is such a lovable, memorable character. Well written, informative, inspiring, heartwarming and funny as well as a touch quirky and melancholic I think overall this sequel is flippin fabulous.

My thanks as always to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read in exchange for an honest review.

This book was eagerly anticipated and certainly did not disappoint. It was so lovely to dip back into penguin world and I especially appreciated the underlying message to be kind to our planet.
Definitely one not to be missed this winter.

I’ve been eagerly waiting for the sequel to Away with the Penguins and I wasn’t disappointed. Another lovely heart warming story by Hazel Prior with an important underlying message about looking after our planet. Recommend reading the books in order to understand the characters and backgrounds in this novel. Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this book ahead of its launch on 11th November.

This is a lovely continuation of the story from Away with the Penguins as we catch up with Veronica, Daisy, Patrick, Terry and co as they embark on new adventures.

The characters are loveable and the story flows really well making this a lovely cosy read even when you get a little frustrated with the characters behaviours. The important climate change, pollution, and dangers of plastic message continues throughout.

I would definitely recommend reading the first novel before this one.

A sequel not to be missed.

Following on from Away with the penguins, call of the penguins will not leave you disappointed.

Once again, Hazel Prior has beautifully written a book with in depth knowledge of penguins and the crisis of our current climate.

The story is engaging, and the detail is exceptional.

Highly recommend. It could be read as a stand alone but for the depth I would recommend reading Away with the penguins first.

Hazel Prior has written a fitting sequel to "Away with the Penguins". All of the original characters are back, together with a few new ones, as Veronica embarks on a new career at the age of 87. "Call of the Penguins" is as charming and quirky as the first book and once again highlights environmental issues.

A joy to read.

Thanks to Net Galley and the publishers for the opportunity to review this book.

Another beautiful book from Hazel Prior which re-introduces us to Veronica the elderly lady with a penguin obsession. This time Veronica is asked to co-present a wildlife documentary and the book seamlessly combines the stories of Veronica's grandson Patrick and his search for information about his father, 9 year old Daisy who is recovering from cancer, Patrick's girlfriend Terry who runs the Antarctica penguin research station and the filming of the documentary in the Falkland Islands.

The penguins are the scene stealers right from the start with the level of information always mixed with a huge dollop of charm and humour. Veronica's formal turn of speech adds yet another layer of appeal and the story moves forward in the enchanting scenery with perfect pace and interest. Added to this is a memorable message about conservation and our duty to reduce our use of plastics which is delivered without a hint of hectoring or preaching. A wonderful read.

I read somewhere quite recently that you can read both of these books out of order, want my opinion? You can't! Don't do that, instead enjoy #AwayWithThePenguins first before you launch into this, things will make much more sense and be far more enjoyable for you, trust me.
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I loved the first, and I loved and adored the second, in Call of the Penguins you get more of the same Penguin action and Fishy frolicks which was fab but best of all we're back with the characters that we grew to love along with some new ones including Sir Robert who I'm assuming is the equivalent of a fictional Attenborough (and whom Veronica may or may not fancy!)
I was so glad when the story steered towards Veronica and Patrick discovering more about long lost son and dad Enzo because I loved his chapters in the last book. Also, there was more of Terry, with her own storyline, and she's just fab too!
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Thee perfect winter read, grab a blanket with a hot choc and snuggle down with the Penguins once more (or the first installment if you've not read it yet!) you won't regret it!
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Massive Thanks to #Netgalley #HazelPrior and #PenguinRandomHouse for the opportunity to read this great one before it's release on 11th November, much appreciated

After enjoying Away with the Penguins, I just had to read the sequel by Hazel Prior.

More penguins! I love penguins!

The wonderful 87 year old Veronica is back too, as a penguin ambassador, making a tv documentary on birds.

Lots of storylines and interesting locations, but for me, just not quite as good as the first book.

Call of the Penguins by Hazel Prior
I give this book 4.5 stars

87 year old Veronica McCreedy has recently discovered a late-life love for family and friendship, adventure and wildlife.
More specifically, a love for penguins!
And so when she's invited to co-present a wildlife documentary, far away in the southern hemisphere, she jumps at the chance.
Perhaps it’s never too late….to shine?

This is one of those rare books that has that perfect mix of a beautifully written story and location with equally strong well rounded characters to connect with..For me the narrative was totally absorbing and the uplifting plot warmed my heart with emotion. It also portrays an important message about looking after nature and thinking about packaging.l found the Penguins informative and delightful.
A book ld highly recommend

With thanks to Netgalley,Hazel Prior and Random House UK, Transworld Publishers, Black Swan for the chance to read and review this book

I really enjoyed this follow up story to Away with the Penguins. It was lovely to read more about Veronica, Patrick, Terry and Pip.

Veronica has returned home and has been looking after 9 year old Daisy who has been undergoing chemotherapy. She has instilled a love of penguins in her young friend - thinking of the penguins has kept her going.

Veronica is given the opportunity to travel to become a penguin ambassador and travel around the world to co-present a documentary on birds. Daisy and her mother join her.

Patrick and Terry break up and Patrick seeks to find out about his father in Canada. The outcome of this research will cause considerable upset to both Patrick and Veronica and make both question themselves.

Terry is dealing with her own issues - professional and personal. Veronica brings them all together in the Falklands to allow them all to move on.

A hopeful story - a really enjoyable read.

This is the second book in a series, something I was not aware of when I requested it (nor when I began to read it). If you are inclined to read this book, you should pick up the first book beforehand. I often felt there were references to the first novel that I was missing or misunderstanding while reading this book and that took some of the enjoyment away from reading it.

It wasn't a bad book, it was actually pretty interesting when you got into it, it was just a little disconnected because readers of the first novel would be aware of character dynamics and plot lines that I was not.

Overall, if it interests you, make sure to read the first book before you pick this one up.

Recommend that you read the first book, as this story will make much more sense. This follow up is more of the same in that you definitely know what you are getting. It’s easy reading and perfect for winter.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an ARC.