Waiting for Mama

An emperor penguin chick narrates this educational polar tale by Marino, which showcases the heroic efforts undertaken by penguin parents—especially the intrepid females—to support their young. “Even though I can’t see,/ I know what’s happening outside./ I can feel it,/ like I can feel/ the cold,” voices the soon-to-be-hatchling from a pale green egg perched on its father’s feet. After noting its mama’s unique goodbye call as she departs to find sustenance, the chick goes on to describe its surroundings via sound: the “CRUNCH” of the ice, the “BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!” of papa’s heart, and a final “CRAAACK!” of the egg shell, just in time for an exuberant family reunion. Pale pinks and blues predominate in Marino’s landscapes, contrasting with the book’s sleek black-and-white protagonists, often dramatically captured in group scenes. Anthropomorphic narration lends a tenderhearted feel to the scientific information communicated about penguin family dynamics. A note on emperor penguins concludes. Ages 3–7. (Mar.)