The penguin is a straightforward introduction to the life cycle of an emperor penguin. The illustrations are very accurate paintings and support the text well. The text is written in readable, narrative prose and maintains a story-telling rhythm throughout. While the art is not bad at all, this book does feel a bit dated by the illustrations but this does not take away from the learning opportunities it offers. It took me about 10 minutes to read, and there are several spots which either through suspense or illustration offer up moments for predictions. Nothing to write home about, but not in a bad way; you just don't tell everyone at home everything. ( )