This beautifully crafted story, by the same team who devised Ahmed and the Nest of Sand, teaches readers about a marvellous colourful bird that returns to Newfoundland’s Bonavista Peninsula each spring to mate. Written by Nova Scotian teacher and author Kristin Bieber Domm, the text shows a deep respect for this remarkable creature. The informational content flows seamlessly from one page to the next, discussing the bird’s behaviour and habitat. The descriptions are refreshing and pleasing to the ear. For example, the puffin narrator states, “I feel snazzy in the spring when my webbed feet and beak turn bright orange.” The story leads readers through the life cycle of a puffin. Interesting facts are woven into the text, such as “Can you believe I sometimes carry twenty fish in my beak at once?” The evocative story will certainly heighten interest in this little-known bird.

The colourful puffin is particularly visually appealing. Jeffrey C. Domm’s paintings embrace a palette of vibrant colours: turquoise, orange, yellow, and blue. His images – spray coming off the ocean, bubbles streaming underwater, and puffins descending a cliff at night under a canopy of winking stars – are infused with energy and excitement. Readers will almost feel the brisk Newfoundland wind in Domm’s seascapes.

The last page presents more factual information about the Atlantic puffin. It’s an effective finale, written like an encyclopedia entry, with actual photos of the birds. This celebration of the Atlantic puffin is an excellent addition to any library, and young visitors to the Maritimes will find it an ideal souvenir.