Staff Review: "One Cool Friend" by Toni Buzzeo

Is there any kid in the whole wide world that hasn't gone to the zoo or aquarium and wanted to take home one of the animals as a pet? For all of those who long for an exotic pet, the delightfully surprising "One Cool Friend" by Toni Buzzeo just might itch your scratch.

Elliot is a formal boy with a scientific father who one day invites Elliot to a day at the aquarium. Elliot doesn't relish the idea of being around swarms of children, but decides that he likes the aquarium when he discovers the penguins. "In their tidy black feather tuxedos with their proper posture, they reminded Elliot of himself." In what can only be described as a fortunate misunderstanding, Elliot takes a small penguin home in his backpack and names it Magellan. The rest of the book chronicles Elliot's learning of penguin behavior, and his efforts to keep his new pet happy while keeping him away from his father. What happens when Magellan and Elliot's father finally meet will have you laughing out loud.

Elliot is a rare picture book boy--he's formal, reserved, bookish, and completely endearing in his tuxedo and red backpack. He doesn't talk much and is always polite, but his imagination and creativity are bubbling constantly underneath. His relationship with his father seems equally reserved, but it is fitting to both of their characters. The illustrations by David Small are simple with few colors, and appropriate for the story. This seemingly unassuming book is my favorite of the year so far, and you will want to read it over and over again. It's a good story for anyone, but kindergarteners on up will understand the humor better.

--Andrea W., H.Q.

P.S.  If you love penguins, check out "Lost and Found" by Oliver Jeffers  










or "365 Penguins" by Jean-Luc Fromental.