A review by karastotle
Mr. Popper's Penguins by Richard Atwater

4.0

This is fun read that is an excellent way to introduce young readers to chapter books and longer reading projects. The illustrations help bridge the gap between picture book and "grown up" chapter book, which also makes the pages fly by (and makes kids feel accomplished at all the pages they've read). Mr. Popper's antics are amusing and delightful, and who wouldn't love his hilarious penguins? This book has held up surprisingly well for being almost 80 years old, although I do wish Bill and Janie (the children) played more central roles, since this is a kid's story after all. This book was originally published towards the end of the Great Depression, when poverty and money troubles were widespread, but Mr. and Mrs. Popper's financial concerns may not resonate with all 4-8 year-old as much as they would have in 1938. But in the end, this is a classic for a reason, and I'm glad I was able to pick up a copy for myself.