Illustrations were okay, but the story was not my favorite. Cover did not quite match story and overall was ok.

Daphne is a coming-of-age story focused on a penguin. It's a story about living your dreams and never getting up. I wasn't big on the b story of her brother, but in the end it worked out.
I was not overly engaged in this but it might be because it was not for my age range. I would give it to my child.

You know how they say never judge a book by its cover? Well guess what kids do when they go to the library? The title also should be revamped. Kids don’t read the back cover to figure out what the book is about. They have short attention spans and one liners will either hook them or not. Also, the author photo gives Tinder vibes. Nothing creeps parents out more than seeing a grown adult man writing about a young girl more than a Tinder photo. Devil’s in the details. Plot was just okay, so was character development.

This is a no picture story for children about a penguin who believed she could fly and the society that doubted her. The art of working hard and believing in yourself.

How could I resist such an adorable cover? I’m only human! I should have known.

Alas, if you pardon the pun, Daphne: The Penguin Who Wanted to Fly was neither fish nor fowl nor good red herring. The cover makes a reader think they’re getting a picture book. Instead, it’s a chapter book with a pretty juvenile premise.

Who is the audience for this book? It’s too long and verbose for primary students, and intermediate students (third-, fourth- and fifth-graders) will find the premise silly and Daphne a bit annoying. Adults will reject this book outright, as it’s silly without being charming.

I’m really embarrassed. Although the book is merely 127 pages long, I simply could not finish it. I wish Daphne and her brothers Datne, Dis-One, Dat-One, and DeUdderOne (see what I mean?)

In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and BooksGoSocial in exchange for an honest review.

"Daphne: The Penguin Who Wanted to Fly" is an enchanting tale that captivates both the young and the young at heart. In this heartwarming story, author Christopher Logan introduces us to the delightful world of Daphne, a penguin with a dream as big as the sky.

The narrative is beautifully woven, seamlessly blending imagination with valuable life lessons. Daphne's journey is not just about defying the laws of nature but also about courage, determination, and the importance of staying true to oneself. The character of Daphne serves as an inspiring role model for readers, encouraging them to pursue their dreams, no matter how unconventional they may seem.

The book also subtly addresses themes of friendship and acceptance, as Daphne encounters various characters on her journey who teach her the value of diversity and the strength that comes from embracing one's uniqueness. These subtle messages are seamlessly integrated into the storyline, making it not just an entertaining read but also a meaningful one.

"Daphne" is a testament to the power of dreams and the magic that unfolds when one believes in oneself. It's a perfect read for families, classrooms, or anyone seeking a delightful escape into a world where the impossible becomes possible. This book is sure to leave readers with smiles on their faces and hearts full of inspiration. Highly recommended!

I absolutely love this cover with the penguin, I think it’s so creative and enjoyable. The book itself was written so beautifully, I felt so connected to the writing. I also absolutely loved Daphne’s character and portrayal.

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with access to read this book!

Daphne
The Penguin Who Wanted to Fly
by Christopher Logan

What is it with me and children’s book these days, you say? Look at this cover! The cover made me get it, it’s awesome! And there are penguins involved, so I am all for it!

I expected a picture book, but no, I got a one hundred pages long book and I couldn’t have been happier. Don’t know why I expected it to be a picture book.

Christopher Logan has a beautiful way with words, I have to say. Already the first few pages had me. Written so beautifully.
I mean, read this:
“A long, long time ago, the world was a much different place.
There were secrets hidden in the crevices of small streets lining the tiniest of Indian villages.
There were whispers that ran up the sides of mountains in the Himalayas, and there were wishes that circled the world over and over again--searching for their destinies.
These secrets and whispers and wishes were part of a grand design. They were the last vestiges of magic. The remnants and reminders of what is possible and what can be.” That part had gotten me, totally.

I like to picture this, wishes circle the work, until they find where they belong. I also liked the struggles Daphne had with her wish. This is such a special book and surprisingly deep. It was really wonderful to read. Such lovely characters, it was really quite refreshing!

“Penguins can’t roll their R’s”, be assured, Daphne, neither can I! 😂 I loved that line. I also loved Daphne in general, who had to be so responsible for her age. But she is also someone who feels that she is different and does not fit. That makes her even more loveable, don’t we all sometimes feel that way…

Thank you NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for this ARC. All opinions are my own!