Penguins Don’t Send Postcards

This ‘mainly true’ story is written, illustrated and published by a New Zealander named Jeanette Goodge. It is a fascinating insight into the life of an injured, rare Fiordland crested penguin (Tawaki) called Jack.

This book is an excellent mix of fact and fiction and would make a perfect read aloud for all primary aged children. They will learn lots of interesting things about this special endangered penguin while enjoying some very amusing anecdotes.

It was sad when Jack was attacked and badly injured, but thank goodness he was found on the beach by a kind fisherman who took him to a vet. Then this flightless bird was flown to Palmerston North’s Wildbase Hospital. Yet another flight took him to The West Coast Wildlife Rescue in Westport for rehabilitation.

Jack’s carer, Julie, soon became like a mother to him. ‘If anyone got too close to Julie he would charge them, red beak ready to peck’.

Numerous (quite amusing) attempts were made to try and get Jack to go back home (via the sea), but Jack didn’t want to leave Julie!

His last flight was in a helicopter where Julie finally says goodbye to Jack. (I found this ending quite emotional!) But then I had to smile as Julie said, “Penguins don’t send postcards.” Now I understand the title!

Jeanette has hand-illustrated this small picture book and brings the tawaki and other creatures to life. I can just imagine the squawking coming from that bright red beak!

I’m sure this book will be very popular in our school library.