There are 17 kinds of penguin but the Emperor is the only one that breeds in Antarctica in midwinter. The adults arrive at their breeding areas--often as far as 200 kilometres from the open sea--in late autumn. A few weeks later the female lays her single egg and returns to the sea, leaving the male to keep the egg warm a couple of months later.

And so begins the story of The Emperor's Egg, a fascinating and unique story retold in a stunning book that quite simply takes the breath away. Superbly detailed and vivid illustrations that capture the chill of the Antarctic in a palette of icy blues contrast with the warm and informative text that explains the life-cycle of Emperor penguins in a memorable, sing-song way.

The Emperor's Egg is a stunning introduction to a truly remarkable creature, and could certainly be used in a study of the subject. But the overriding feeling is that this book is ideal for parent and child to share together anytime, and is sure to become a firm favourite. (Ages 4 and over)--Susan Harrison

2003-12-30 Fantastic!