Owl and Penguin - (I Like to Read Comics) by Vikram Madan

About the Book

Despite their differences, two unlikely friends flock together like birds of a feather.

Book Synopsis

A Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor Book!
An American Library Association Notable Children's Book

Two feathered friends are Frog and Toad for the emoji generation in this delightful graphic novel for emerging readers.

Owl likes peace and quiet.
Penguin likes to SING OUT LOUD.

But best friends don't need to be the same. Sometimes it's good to disagree! Owl and Penguin celebrate their differences and solve their problems with creative play. From ice cream mishaps to rainy day chills, there's nothing these pals can't get through together.

In three nearly wordless stories, expressive art takes charge of the storytelling, supplemented by simple text captions and emoticon-style images in speech bubbles. This innovative format supports visual literacy and sight word recognition for the earliest independent readers. With warm humor and a joyful palette, it's perfect for kids to giggle over on their own.

I Like to Read(R) Comics are perfect for kids who are challenged by or unengaged in reading, kids who love art, and the growing number of young comics fans. Filled with eye-catching art, humor, and terrific stories, these comics provide unique reading experiences for growing minds. Like their award-winning I Like to Read(R) counterparts, these books are created by celebrated artists and support reading comprehension to transform children into lifelong readers.

Named to the Little Maverick Graphic Novel Reading List!
A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection

Review Quotes

"A wonderful example of how a comics format can work well for even the earliest readers."--The Horn Book

"Filled with undeniable charm. . . . [and] gleeful visual humor that will win these lovable pals legions of young fans."--The Toledo Blade

"Reminiscent of the strong bond between Arnold Lobel's Frog and Toad, Owl and Penguin's friendship is deep and delightful, and this easy reader makes the story comprehensible as it addresses themes of envy, sadness, and problem-solving in an accessible and entertaining way."--Kirkus Reviews

"Debuting with an exercise in adorable empathy, Owl and Penguin make a breezy foray into the tradition of supportive picture book friendships. . . . Madan's brightly colored illustrations of the boggle-eyed buddies add to the goofy fun for tenuous young readers."--School Library Journal

"Owl and Penguin are a hoot! Brings the comic format even younger and in a way that reads so clearly. This book has wings!" --Ben Clanton, New York Times bestselling creator of Narwhal and Jelly

About the Author

Vikram Madan grew up in India, where he wanted to be a cartoonist, but ended up an engineer. After many years in the tech industry, he came to his senses and followed his heart into storytelling. He is the author/illustrator of A Hatful of Dragons, which received a starred review in Kirkus Reviews, was a Kirkus Reviews Best Book, and was named to the Texas Bluebonnet Master List and the NYPL Best Books List, as well as the Bobo and Pup-Pup series. He lives in Seattle. Visit him online at vikrammadan.com