Penguin wonders how he can contribute to the community talent show in Penguin’s Hidden Talent by Alex Latimer (Peachtree, 2012). Predictably, he finds he does have a talent, and his friends greatly appreciate it in the end. Although Penguin’s Hidden Talent follows a predictable format, it is still a heartwarming book about finding your place in a community as well as a hilarious tale about a penguin.
As Penguin tries various skills, he cannot find success. Why? He can’t burp the alphabet or juggle appliances! What can he do? I loved the twist at the end, where he realizes, “I don’t need a medal. I need a telephone.” Further, I really like the geometric pencil drawings. Penguin’s story is inspiring, but it’s also lots of fun. Who doesn’t like a good party?
