From the Linux logo to The March of the Penguins a certain tuxedo-adorned member of the animal kingdom has perpetually captured our hearts & imaginations. Stephen Martin regales us here with the cultural history of the penguin revealing many fascinating & little-known facts about this beloved bird. Over twenty species of penguins can be found in the Galapagos Islands & New Zealand as well as in Antarctica & range from the Little Bee Penguin at about 1kg to the imposing Emperor Penguin which can weigh in at over 34 kgs. Martin details the biological facts & natural history of each species including their evolution habitats diet & behaviour but he also combs through cultural history to chronicle the role of penguins in popular culture & thought from children's literature such as Mr Popper's Penguins" to " Batman"'s nemesis to films & television shows including " Happy Feet" & ' Pingu". Over one hundred images of penguins enrich Martin's engaging text as well. A captivating & readable natural history " Penguin" will be an essential addition to the bookshelves of penguin fans everywhere."