Poppy the Penguin comes from a long line of circus performers.But the hardest thing is not juggling, or riding a unicycle - it's telling her mum that she doesn't want to perform any more. A tale of overcoming shyness and a celebration of girl power!

What could be better than The Greatest Showman? The Greatest Showpenguin of course! Hot on the heels of the record-breaking movie, and with a sequel coming shortly, we present a funny and sensitive parody.

Poppy the Penguin comes from a long line of circus performers. Many skills have been passed down from penguin to penguin. However, Poppy feels that performing in the family circus might not be for her. But the hardest thing is not juggling, or riding a unicycle - it's telling her mum that she doesn't want to perform any more. The bravery is worth it when Poppy discovers a role more suited to her - organising and coordinating the whole show. And what a show it turns out to be!

A tale of overcoming shyness and lack of confidence, finding success and a celebration of girl power!

About the Author

Lucy has an MA in children's book illustration from Cambridge School of Art, a degree in illustration from Cardiff School of Art & Design and did her art foundation at Falmouth University. Since graduating in 2015 Lucy has worked on a range of projects, from writing and illustrating picture books to designing soft toys and greetings cards from her studio in East London.

Lucy uses pen and watercolours, and loves sketching from life and eavesdropping at the zoo.

Reviews

'A warm-hearted story, with gorgeous watercolour illustrations, The Greatest Show Penguin will light up bedtime for little ones - and remind them being brave is not as scary as you think!'

-- The Book Activist

'This may seem like an unassuming book but honestly this is such a lovely story about being true to yourself and following your heart. It's taken me by surprise and that little penguin has entered our hearts'

-- Book Bairn

'A sweet and beautifully illustrated tale that might inspire readers to think about what they would really love to do as a job!'

-- Storytime magazine

'We love it! ... This is such an important book that gives the message of doing something that makes you happy'

-- Rosie's Library

'This is not only the most joyous story about self-discovery and embracing who you are, it also contains some of the cutest picture book penguins'

-- Book Murmuration

'The watercolour illustrations have a freeze-frame quality about them as well as an abundance of pattern in the details making you want to pause and take time to enjoy each one'

-- Red Reading Hub

'This affirmative, heartwarming story gives readers plenty to think and talk about ... Whilst the messages of this book offer a great deal, it is perhaps the illustrations that are the biggest draw. They are bold, vibrant, funny and well worth lingering over'

-- Armadillo Magazine

'This is a delightful story ... the illustrations are simply charming ... a sweet, beautifully illustrated story about being true to yourself'

-- North Somerset Teachers Book Award

'This sweet and funny story .... parodies The Greatest Showman, while also introducing themes of overcoming lack of confidence and managing the adult world's expectations of who we are born to be'

-- Absolutely Education

'Here is all the awe and wonder of the circus showground'

-- Books for Keeps magazine

'This is a wonderfully heartwarming story ... It's a story which I wish I could have read as a child'

-- Ivy's Library

'Some big life lessons in one little book!'

-- The Bottom Shelf

'This such a sweet depiction of the importance of being true to one's self ... Lucy Freegard's Penguins are just adorable, and HURRAH for a glasses-wearing protagonist'

-- Little Literary Society

'We loved this super fun read, it's one of my favourites I've read in a good while!'

-- Literate Littles

'Heartwarming... This clever narrative will push children to think about how to take more control over their lives, deal with things that worry them, and feel more secure in their surroundings'

-- School Reading List



Book Information
ISBN 9781843654681
Author Lucy Freegard
Format Paperback
Page Count 32
Imprint Pavilion Children's Books
Publisher HarperCollins Publishers
Weight(grams) 180g
Dimensions(mm) 280mm * 220mm * 2mm