I told you it was silly! (I can just imagine the long-suffering Mrs P-B – stuck on that iceberg with the family – rolling her eyes as she adds, “We’re penguins.”)  

For me, one of the reasons Poles Apart stands out is thanks to the dialogue which feels natural and genuine. Willis skillfully captures the haphazard – often overlapping – nature of family chat which lends warmth to the scenes.

Kids especially will love the littlest penguin, Pog! Throughout the story, he asks, “Can we have our picnic?” Another time he announces, “I need a wee.” Finally, eagle-eyed readers will discover that the mischievous Pog is responsible for the surprise ending(s).

In the meantime, he informs the genial Mr White that they’re going on a picnic at the South Pole.