A timeless children’s book that conveys an overwhelmingly positive message.
Reminiscent of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, who was mocked for his red nose, Parker the Purple Penguin is rejected by the other penguins due to the unique color of his coat. Unable to play with the other penguins, he is lonely and sad until he comes up with a novel idea. Parker decides to use squid ink to completely cover his purple coat and trick the other penguins so that he can be included in their activities. For a while, his scheme works grandly, but after a while something happens that reveals Parker’s true colors. How will the other penguins react when they find out that they had been playing with Parker the Purple Penguin?
Despite the obvious lessons found in Parker the Purple Penguin, it is such a vividly described story that it’s easy to get caught up in Parker’s situation and not even realize that you are receiving such a powerful message about inclusivity. In addition to the strong themes of acceptance and tolerance, the topics of individuality, courage, compassion and forgiveness are shared in an entertaining and impactful manner. The concluding page features eight helpful questions that can be used to kick-start an educational dialogue with young ones after finishing the story. Marybeth Wishart has written a timeless children’s book that conveys an overwhelmingly positive message, which proves to be as relevant now as ever. Children will be drawn to Parker the Purple Penguin for the lively narrative, but will also be growing into more empathetic people as they absorb the deeper meanings found in his touching story.
