83 pages • 2 hours read
Mr. Popper's Penguins
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Book Brief
Mr Popper's Penguins
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1938
Super Short Summary
Mr. Popper’s Penguins tells the story of Mr. Popper, a housepainter fascinated by the Arctic and Antarctic, who unexpectedly receives a penguin named Captain Cook. When Captain Cook becomes lonely, another penguin named Greta joins him, and they produce a brood. The Popper family renovates their home to care for the penguins and eventually trains them to perform, touring the country and ultimately sending them to the North Pole to start a colony, fulfilling Mr. Popper's dreams of exploration.
Playful
Humorous
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
139 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Mr. Popper's Penguins by Richard and Florence Atwater offers a whimsical, charming tale enjoyed by children for its playful storytelling and imaginative content. Critics commend its humor and heartwarming characters, though some find the plot simplistic and outdated. Overall, it remains a beloved classic, appreciated for its lighthearted, family-friendly appeal.
Who Should Read Mr Popper's Penguins?
Readers who enjoy whimsical, heartwarming tales filled with humor and adventure will relish Mr. Popper's Penguins by Richard Atwater and Florence Atwater. Fans of Charlotte's Web by E.B. White and James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl will find similar charm and imagination in this delightful story.
139 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mrs. Popper
Mrs. Popper
Mr. Popper's practical and pragmatic wife, who manages the family's finances and supports her husband's dreams while maintaining a well-organized home.
Admiral Drake
Admiral Drake
An Antarctic explorer and hero to Mr. Popper, who sends him a live penguin and later involves him in an expedition to explore new frontiers.
Janie and Bill Popper
Janie and Bill Popper
The well-behaved children of Mr. and Mrs. Popper, who enthusiastically assist in caring for and training the penguins.
Mr. Greenbaum
Mr. Greenbaum
A national theater chain owner impressed by the penguins, offering Mr. Popper a lucrative performance contract.
Captain Cook
Captain Cook
A lively and mischievous penguin sent to Mr. Popper by Admiral Drake, whose presence sparks a series of adventures.
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