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One Cool Friend

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One Cool Friend
by Toni Buzzeo
Dial Books for Young Readers, 2012, unpaged, Picture Book


While on a visit to the aquarium, Elliot asks his father if he can have a penguin. Seeing the stuffed penguins for sale in the gift shop, Elliot's father hands over some money and off Elliot goes--to pick out a real baby penguin from the penguin exhibit. That's when things get really interesting. After all, penguins need cold water and ice. LOTS of it. What will happen to Elliot's new friend when his clueless dad finally catches on to what is going on in their house? The best part of this book is the fantastic illustrations by David Small. There is a lot of Small's sly humor to be found hidden in the pictures--especially noticeable upon a second reading. Don't miss out on this hilarious and charming book!
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