Every Penguin in the World: A Quest to See Them All

Photographer Bergman (Wild Echoes: Encounters with the Most Endangered Animals in North America) shares his fascination with penguins in this visually impressive volume. Having first spied the birds “off the red-sand shores of” Rábida Island, one of the Gálapagos islands, nearly 20 years ago, he’s been fascinated with them ever since and became determined to see each of the 18 different species in the wild. Bergman discusses their beauty and unique personalities, fondly writing of their combination of “dignity and awkwardness.” The animals look like “little people with their flippers—or wings—like arms, and their characteristic and charming waddle.” The book’s most striking feature, however, consists of Bergman’s photographs from his trips. He captures up-close images of various species in their natural habitats—erect-crested penguins in New Zealand, Magellanic penguins in Argentina, and king penguins on the Falkland Islands, among them. Bergman also connects with scientists, conservationists, birders, guides, and tourists in the field, championing environmental concerns. Readers will enjoy Bergman’s enthusiastic recollections of his jaunts around the world and be astonished by his vivid photos. Agent: Elizabeth Wales, Wales Literary. (Apr.)