Penguin Oh Penguin
Age range 1+
‘The Penguin song has lasted throughout the generations and has been sung to my children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.’ — Gladys Milroy
Utterly charming! Penguin Oh Penguin is a gentle early childhood story about a penguin that runs away to be at sea. Rhyme is one of the building blocks of language learning, and this prosaic title highlights friendship, hope and home. The lilting rhythm of the verse comes through and is an absolute delight to read aloud. Perfect for toddlers and little wrigglers, this book will also appeal to older children who will love reading it themselves, or who may want to sing along.
‘I wrote Penguin Oh Penguin for my children over sixty years ago. I was always making up stories and songs for them but this one was the favourite. It came about when I bought a little black velvet penguin toy that we played with at bedtime.’ — Gladys Milroy
Gladys Milroy was born in 1927 but was stolen from her mother, Daisy Corunna, as a young child and placed in Parkerville Children’s Home. Gladys has been a storyteller and educator throughout her life. She takes an active role in the Palyku Native Title Group and is particularly concerned about the protection of Palyku Country. Gladys believes it is the birthright of Aboriginal children, and of all children, to be born into stories, she is the author and illustrator of Silver Leaves.
Helen Milroy illustrated Penguin Oh Penguin and is the author and illustrator of many children’s books, including the Tales from the Bush Mob series. She is a child and adolescent psychiatrist. Helen is a strong advocate for the mental health and wellbeing of children. She has received her Membership of the Order of Australia (2023), was the Western Australian State Recipient, Australian of the Year 2021 and joint winner of the 2020 Australian Mental Health Prize.
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