Polar Bear Island - by Lindsay Bonilla (Paperback)

About the Book

When Kirby, a fun-loving penguin, arrives on Polar Bear Island, she shakes things up--much to the dismay of Parker, the mayor. Will Parker learn to see how great it is to make new friends? Or will he chase Kirby away forever? Full color.

Book Synopsis

A creative penguin teaches resistant polar bears the value of welcoming others in this engaging winter picture book that combines humor with heart.

"Welcome to Polar Bear Island. NO OTHERS ALLOWED!"

So says Parker, the mayor, eager to keep the island just the way it is. But Kirby, a newly arrived penguin, is shaking things up--much to Parker's dismay. The other polar bears love Kirby and beg Parker to let Kirby (and her family) move in. Will Parker agree . . . and make the island fun for EVERYONE? With its gentle message of inclusivity, this energetic story is a splash.

Perfect for anyone looking for winter books for kids 3-5, Polar Bear Island will have little ones giggling at Kirby's antics while learning important lessons about welcoming others. With its cast of polar animals, beautiful illustrations, and playful storytelling, this story stands out among children's books about immigration by offering a kid-friendly way to discuss inclusion, celebrate differences, and understand how new perspectives can enrich a community.

Review Quotes

"The text is accessible and good fun to read aloud. . . . The cartoonlike, scratchboard-ish graphics are lighthearted and full of anthropomorphic touches. Good bedtime reading." --Kirkus

About the Author

Lindsay Bonilla performs interactive folktales for her company, World of Difference Ltd., and teaches children about foreign countries and cultures. She lives in North Canton, Ohio, with her husband, sons, and rescue dog. Learn more about Lindsay at lindsaybonilla.com and follow her @LindsayBonilla on Twitter.

Cinta Villalobos is an illustrator who lives in Barcelona, Spain. Learn more about Cinta at cintavillalobos.com and follow her @CintaVillalobos on Twitter.