"I hear PEEPS and SQUEAKS from
the eggs on the feet of other papas.
We are all waiting for our
mamas to come home.
Papa misses Mama.
Just like I do.
This is a charming lesson for little ones concerning the care and nurturing of penguin eggs and chicks. The egg is cold, and the chick inside is aware of what is going on outside its safe shell. He recognizes his mother's call, as it is nothing like the others. Before the egg hatches, Mama begins a long walk for food.
All the mamas leave together, trusting the papas who are in charge of the soon-to-be-born chicks. Papa protects the egg under the warmth of his belly. The eggs begin to show signs of hatching. They are all waiting for the mamas to return. The papas protect each other when the temperature drops and the winds blow. At times, the egg is unprotected. Nothing to worry about; Papa knows just what to do.
The chick is anxious to meet his papa. Stretching, he cracks the egg shell. What a surprise to see how big Papa is. Other chicks are hatching, too. A loud commotion on the ice is the signal that the mamas are coming home. Soon, the family is reunited, with food and love.
The illustrations are impressive. They match the spare text and beauty of the setting, while also letting little ones see the family of penguins succeeding in a harsh environment. A final note about the emperor penguin is useful.
"After two months of feeding, the female penguin returns to feed her
newly hatched chick. Her timely return is critical to the survival of the
chick."
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