1 / 6Mr. Popper's Penguins (Newbery Honor Award Winner)
Award Winner: Mr. Popper's Penguins is a Newbery Honor children's story about a house painter whose home fills with penguins. This English reissue is listed at 160 pages and was first published in 1938, according to the product description.
At a glance
- A Newbery Honor story featuring Mr. Popper and a growing household of penguins.
- The description says the book was first published in 1938.
- Listed as an English reissue with a 160-page print length.
Often bought together
Pros and cons
Pros
- The penguin-filled-house premise gives the story a clear, humorous hook for young readers.
- Customer feedback describes the book as amusing and engaging, and says it works for independent reading as well as repeated read-alouds.
Cons
- Some readers may find the vocabulary challenging, which could make independent reading harder for some children.
Technical specifications
11 specifications| Publisher | Little, Brown Books for Young Readers |
|---|---|
| Publication date | November 2, 1992 |
| Edition | Reissue |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 160 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 0316058432 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0316058438 |
| Reading age | 6 - 9 years, from customers |
|---|---|
| Grade level | 3 and up |
| Weight listed | 4.4 ounces |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 5.2 x 0.65 x 7.6 inches |
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers looking for a humorous children's classic centered on penguins and family life.
- Families seeking a story that customers report works for both independent reading and read-aloud sessions.
Less suited to
- Readers who prefer contemporary language or want to avoid older books that some customers consider dated.

Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
79% 79% - 4 stars
13% 13% - 3 stars
5% 5% - 2 stars
1% 1% - 1 star
2% 2%
Customer feedback highlights amusing writing, an engaging story, and appeal for independent reading and repeated read-alouds. Some readers find the vocabulary challenging, and opinions differ on whether the story feels timeless or dated. Those differences may matter for younger independent readers and for families choosing between a classic and more contemporary language. The aggregate ratings are predominantly five-star, but ratings alone do not explain individual reactions.
Positive themes
- Customers describe the story as well-written, amusing, engaging, and a favorite children's classic.
- Feedback says children may enjoy hearing the story read repeatedly.
Negative themes
- Some customers find the vocabulary challenging.
Mixed feedback
- Customers differ on whether the story feels timeless or dated.
Frequently asked questions
What is Mr. Popper's Penguins about?
The listing describes a house painter who receives a male penguin, then welcomes a female penguin, and ends up with twelve penguins in his home.
How long is this edition?
The listing gives a print length of 160 pages.
Is this edition suitable for independent reading?
The listed guidance is ages 6–9 and grade 3 and up. Customer feedback says the book can work for independent reading, but some readers find its vocabulary challenging.

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