Away With the Penguins

Why are my eyes watering? Maybe it's dust or maybe it's this beautiful book!

This is the first book in physical format I have read since our country of New Zealand came out of strict lockdown and what a delight it was.

The main character in Hazel Prior's Away with the Penguins is Veronica McCreedy affectionately known as Granny McCreedy. She is in her 80s and lives alone. She loves wildlife documentaries and wants to do one more big thing before she dies. After reading a blog about penguins she sets in motion plans to visit Antarctica.

But this story is about so much more than a trip to Antarctica. Throw in a bunch of a scientists, an adult grandson she's only just met called Patrick, a penguin she befriends, who she also names Patrick, and Veronica's diaries of her earlier life.

The chapters alternate between Veronica and her grandson Patrick and how pieces of their respective pasts have influenced their later lives.

I don't want to give away too much more about this book but it would have to be my favourite so far for 2020. Definitely five out of five stars for this beautiful tale.