11.30am - 12.30pm
Enjoy a lively storytime with the book's creators, followed by a fun, book-inspired creative activity. Expect plenty of laughter, imagination and penguin-sized mischief! Alex will also be bringing his wonderful illustrations to life by painting the bookshop window!
What would YOU do if a penguin turned up at your front door? At first, having an adorable Adélie penguin as a pet sounds rather wonderful. But there's one small problem... This penguin hasn't come alone!
Before long, an entire colony of penguins has arrived, and everyday life becomes a wonderfully chaotic adventure. From trips to the seaside and water park to jazz clubs, movie nights and a very crowded bathtub, these playful penguins are determined to join in with absolutely everything!
Full of rollicking rhymes, hilarious illustrations and wonderfully unexpected adventures, If I Had a Penguin is the tenth story in the internationally bestselling If I Had a... series.
Publishing on 5th November 2026, the bookshop is hosting this exclusive pre-publication event, with copies of the book available before they officially reach bookshops!
Every child takes home their very own pre-publication copy of If I Had a Penguin, signed by its creators, to read and treasure at home!
During the session, the responsible adult(s) are very welcome to enjoy their favourite coffee and pastry downstairs at STAPLE or come and hang out upstairs in the bookshop!!
Children will sit for the reading, then move to a play/craft table for activities. All materials are provided and age-appropriate.
Booking is essential — spaces are limited!
Click here to find other events happening at The Happy Reading Children’s Bookshop
