Mr Penguin and the Fortress of Secrets: Book 2

Strange events have been taking place recently in the Alpine town of Schneedorf-on-the-Peak. Young Deiter Strudel's beloved hamster, Colonel Tuftybum (I challenge you to say that name without sniggering!) has vanished, along with all the other hamsters in the town. Could there be some connection with the glamorous lady that Mr Penguin meets at the Golden Pagoda Hotel shortly before he makes off with a mysterious rock? And who is the somewhat menacing Dr Mesmero whose diary entries detailing her plans for world domination are interspersed with the chapters of the story? The scene is well and truly set for another splendidly madcap adventure that sees our hero Mr Penguin ('adventurer and penguin') and his trusty yet silent spider sidekick Colin ricocheting around the globe on the hunt for the truth - and a fish finger sandwich in Mr Penguin's case. My pupils are well and truly hooked on this series and I can see why. Alex T Smith is a master of quirky humour with his charming illustrations complementing the text perfectly. There is so much to love about this beautifully produced book. I strongly recommend that children and adults alike let Mr Penguin and Colin transport them on this mysterious mission. Don't forget to pack your adventurer's hat and a good supply of fish finger sandwiches! 245 pages / Ages 7+ / Reviewed by Emily Marcuccilli, school librarian

Suggested Reading Age 7+