When the Dracula family visits the zoo in this humorous picture-book from author/illustrator Lucy Ruth Cummins, their youngest member changes places with one of the penguins for the day. Although the switch remains unnoticed by the vampires, the penguins are more alert, and so will the reader be, picking up on the many discrepancies between the textual description of each scene, and the reality depicted in the artwork...

Although I have read and enjoyed a number of Cummins' other picture-books, both those written by her and those written by other authors, I was unaware of Vampenguin until seeing it reviewed by an online friend late last year. Thankfully, my library request arrived promptly, and I was able to read it. I enjoyed it, particularly the humor of the textual/visual disconnect, and the way in which all of the zoo animals are immediately able to spot the penguin, when the Draculas cannot. That said, I think I agree with my friend, in feeling like there was potential for a deeper story here, one about an actual penguin vampire. Perhaps this was too much to expect, given that I think Cummins is a stronger artist than she is a storyteller. Still, leaving that aside, this was still a fun little romp, and is one I would recommend to picture-book readers looking for stories about vampires, zoos, penguins, and/or the idea of perception vs. reality. ( )

Do you think you cold mistake a penguin for your child. Maybe if you were a vampire? That is exactly what happens when the Dracula family visits the zoo. The youngest member of the family and a penguin trade places, and none really notices. This book was interesting. A very moden take on Curious George. Overall I did like it, but I don’t find it truly memorable. ( )

With a very original twist, giggles and laughs are guaranteed in this well-illustrated book.

The vampire family is spending a day at the zoo. While visiting various animals, they don't notice that their youngest decides to switch places with a baby penguin. The change goes unnoticed to create a lovely adventure.

I love picture books which allow the illustrations to carry the story as much as the text, and this book does that masterfully. The story is simple and tells about the vampire's family's visit to the zoo and what they do there. While illustrations, though, let the reader see the switch-a-roo and the reality, which the family doesn't notice. It's these juxtapose view-points which really make the humor shine.

Not only was the story unique, but it is a nice tale. Listeners can point out things which don't necessarily agree between the illustrations and the text, which allows them to get involved and keeps boredom at bay. The text is also just right for the age group and makes for a lovely read-aloud. I received a complimentary copy and thoroughly enjoyed this fun flip! ( )

"On Saturday, the Dracula family woke up extra early so they could beat the weekend crowds to the zoo."

Illustrations tell as much or more of the story as the text, sometimes contradicting the words in humorous ways (e.g. "After a short wait in line..." when the line spans across a double-page spread). Readers should keep an eye on the smallest member of the Dracula family, and the smallest penguin at the zoo...

See also: One Cool Friend by Toni Buzzeo and David Small ( )

Absolutely charming. So many moments that had me going, "hee!" Be sure to pay attention to the illustrations! ( )