Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

This was a very unique and interesting take on the princess and the frog. I liked the creative angle; it’s true penguins do look way more princely. It was strange to me and my 3yo just because we weren’t expecting the turn of events with the penguin, but it was entertaining!

Know Your Worth

I definitely agree the tone of this book is written specifically to little girls. I believe the message can still apply towards boys as well. A conversation with any child afterwards about treating people right and essentially not settling for just any treatment from people, but knowing their self-worth.

This book reminded me of a gender spin on the Swan Princess.

“There may be a prince in your future, but it surely won’t come from kissing a frog or penguin. It will come from a person who treats you like the princess you are!” -Judith M. Ackerman

I received a free copy of this book from Judith M. Ackerman and BooksGoSocial. I am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions are my own.

The Secret of the Penguins is a twist on fairytales that say if you kiss a frog, it could turn into a prince. Phillippe was a penguin with rizz. He ends up separated from home and cared for by a kind woman. Surprise surprise, Phillipe is actually a prince! The illustrations are cute; I especially enjoyed Phillipe in penguin form.

Thanks to BooksGoSocial and NetGalley for an eARC of this book for an honest review.

This book is such a cute read. It is written for a bit of an older age group than my son but I think he would enjoy it purely for the illustrations. The writing is very well done and I loved the secret reveal. Philipe is a very cute character and in a way relatable.

This was such a cute book, I love the artwork. The story of the penguins magic was so fun.
My kids loved this book, they said they liked the cute penguins and how Phillippe turned in to a prince at the end.

A beautifully illustrated tale of penguins and a special secret they hold, that few know.

Now who doesn’t love a penguin?

Well, here is a tale inspired by the author’s love of fairy tales, the majestic posture and nature of penguins combined with her creative imagination.

My older grandchildren have loved sharing this book with me. The penguins are well drawn and bring these wonderful creatures to life. Philippe is a real star.

The book is a magical one and delivers the story with clarity and in a memorable way.
The revelation of the secret is a surprise and for me seems to interrupt a wider story. The deeper realities of the plight of penguins could have been referenced, a missed opportunity to my mind.
Others may find fault with the link to kissing a frog to become a prince. That would be churlish however, you can’t just redact the history of literature.

This book builds on tradition with a glint in the author’s eye and a dash of poetic licence.