sharada_mohan 's review for:

Away with the Penguins by Hazel Prior

5.0

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Life can be generous. It can heal that heart and whisper that it’s always possible to start again, never too late to make a difference.


Do you like penguins? I suggest you pick this up straight away if you do, even if you just think they are cute!

This book was so heart-warming and adorable! It leaves you so dearly touched with a huge satisfying grin on your face.

Veronica McCreedy, an 86 year old lady in the West Coast of Scotland prefers to live aloof and has a general disregard for the humanity. She has hidden away her grievous past in a box and does not want to face it. With a substantial amount of savings and a no sense of purpose to her life, she would now want to find a worth-wile cause to leave her inheritance to. Veronica soon finds that she has a long lost grandson but realizes he is unworthy of even a penny of her money. Fascinated by one of the TV documentaries, Veronica embarks on a life-changing voyage all way to Locket Island, Antarctica, to spend her time with three scientists who are researching Penguins. It is an amazing journey to find out if Veronica discovers warmth, a sense of fulfillment and love amidst all the cold and wilderness.
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I found Veronica to be so witty, endearing and absolutely charming with all her quirks, smugness and general old lady behavior. Particularly her obsession with closing doors . There were so many moments when I was giggling away.
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It is so admirable how at her ripe age, she has the grit, will and determination to finally do some good with her life. Her perseverance and ability to push her limits is commendable. (as she herself accredits these to the McCreedy clan).
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Aaaannnnd the penguins, the cute, loveable and cuddly penguins! It was a revelation to learn so many things about them. They are strikingly similar to humans but at the same time so different and unique in their own way. Their sense of belonging and community bonding is marvelous. The author has brought out so many other serious issues like climate change, environmental conservation and how human activity is harming the penguin numbers at alarming rates in a subtle but effective way.
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I highly recommend this one!