The Penguin Lady by Carol A. Cole, illustrated by Sherry Rogers Ages 4-9 32 pages Sylvan Dell Publishing February 2012 Hardcover     This attractive and interesting picture book works on a number of levels. In addition to being a counting book, The Penguin Lady also allows the reader compare and contrast the various penguin species. Children also learn a little geography as well, since the author identifies the birds’ natural habitat. Penelope Parker is a kind woman who loves penguins. Because she is so entranced by the birds, people begin to give her live penguins, and soon poor Penelope has a house full of the creatures. Enough is enough, and eventually the Penguin Lady has to seek help at the local zoo. Fortunately, there’s room for more penguins in the zoo’s collection, so Penelope’s birds do find a friendly home. At the end of the book are four pages of learning activities that provide more information about penguins. Most children find penguins fascinating, and this book will give them more information about where penguins come from, how they keep warm in cold climates, and how they vary in size.     web reviews   Bob Walch/2012 for curled up with a good kid's book   For grown-up fiction, nonfiction and speculative fiction book reviews, visit our sister site Curled Up With a Good Book (www.curledup.com)