BooksforTopics Reading for Pleasure Recommendations

Book Title: Night Zoo Keeper: The Penguins of Igloo City (Available here)

Author(s): Joshua Davidson, Giles Clare

Illustrator: Buzz Burman

Publisher: Oxford University Press

Publication Date: January 2019

Most Suitable For: Years 3-4

In the latest offering by Joshua Davidson and his popular Night Zoo Keeper series, Will is once more joined by his trusted friends, Sam and Riya. As he travels through the portal, Will arrives within the high walls of Igloo City and another adventure unfolds.

It soon becomes apparent that all is not well as Circles the owl seeks to protect the inhabitants from the infamous Eek, calling upon the Night Zoo Keeper for assistance in tracking down a group of rebels. Will is only too happy to help however Sam’s ossicones are tingling and Riya has her doubts. Has Will made the right decision or will his actions lead the penguins of Igloo City into even more danger?

This is a fun read for younger readers developing their confidence with longer stories. The ‘Meet the Characters’ section at the start of the book allows children to engage with the cast before the adventure starts or serves as a reminder to those that have enjoyed Joshua Davidson’s other stories in the series. Buzz Burman’s illustrations complement the story beautifully, adding to the enjoyment of the story.

Young children will love Riya’s feisty but brave nature and laugh at sidekick Sam’s corny jokes. Parents will like the theme of friendship and that it’s fine to make mistakes; it’s what you do next that is important. At the end of the book there is an activity section and links to the Night Zoo Keeper interactive website to allow children to unleash their own creativity.

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You can order Night Zoo Keeper: The Penguins of Igloo City online or from your local bookshop or library.

Many thanks to the publisher for sending us a review copy of this book and to our review panel member for reviewing it.