Papa Loves You, Tiny Blue

A small blue penguin’s adulation for his father propels this dialogue-driven story for the marine-inclined. Fairy penguin Tiny Blue demonstrates an unwavering faith in his father’s wisdom, asking ceaseless questions about the oceanic world around them. “How old is the ocean?” he asks. “Why can’t I fly? Will I learn some day?” Papa’s patient replies offer instruction for Tiny Blue and readers. Awash in indigo, turquoise, and other beachy hues, Empson’s suitably immersive renderings present an underwater environment populated with colorful sea dwellers, including jellyfish, seahorses, and a gentle whale shark. When seals arrive on the scene, a brief moment of suspense provides an opening for Tiny Blue’s questions to build in seriousness, creating a fittingly profound conclusion that foregrounds the attachment between father and young: “Will you always keep me safe?” and “What is love?” Back matter offers information on fairy penguins and missing explanations to Tiny Blue’s questions. Ages 3–6. (May)