Step into the charming seaside world of Polly and the Puffin, where a young girl and her feathered friend embark on heartwarming adventures! Written by bestselling author Jenny Colgan, this delightful children’s series captures the magic of friendship, family, and the wonders of nature. Perfect for early readers aged 5–8, these beautifully illustrated books blend humor, gentle life lessons, and a touch of coastal whimsy that keeps kids and parents hooked.
With its lovable characters—Polly, a curious girl, and Neil, a mischievous puffin—the series invites readers to a cozy seaside cottage where every day brings a new discovery. Whether you’re a fan of heartwarming tales or looking for a bedtime story that sparks joy, Polly and the Puffin is a treasure waiting to be explored.
How Polly and the Puffin Began
Jenny Colgan, known for her romantic comedies like Little Beach Street Bakery, introduced Neil the puffin in that adult series, where he stole readers’ hearts. Fans tweeted, created fan pages, and begged for more Neil, inspiring Colgan to craft a children’s series around him. Launched in 2015, Polly and the Puffin paired Colgan’s warm storytelling with Thomas Docherty’s vibrant black-and-orange illustrations, creating a world that feels both timeless and fresh.
Colgan’s Scottish roots and love for coastal settings shaped the series’ backdrop—a stormy, seaside town that mirrors the rugged beauty of Scotland. Her goal? To write stories that teach kids about empathy and nature while keeping them giggling at Neil’s antics. The result is a series that feels like a warm hug on a rainy day.
The Heart of Polly and the Puffin
The series spans four books, each a short, engaging tale perfect for young readers. In Polly and the Puffin (2015), Polly finds an injured puffin, Neil, after a stormy crash. As she nurses him back to health, she learns to care for wild animals and the bittersweet act of letting go. The Stormy Day (2016) follows Polly anxiously awaiting her fisherman father’s return during a storm, with Neil’s naughty flight adding to the drama.
The New Friend (2017) sees Polly navigating the scary world of ‘Big School’ and making new friends, while The Happy Christmas (2017) wraps the series with a festive tale of holiday cheer and puffin mischief. Themes of friendship, resilience, and respecting nature weave through each story, set against a vivid seaside backdrop. Docherty’s illustrations, with their puffin-inspired palette, bring Polly’s world to life, making every page a visual treat.
Colgan’s storytelling shines in its emotional depth, teaching kids about patience, bravery, and the importance of caring for animals without overwhelming them. The books’ episodic chapters and included crafts, jokes, and recipes make them interactive, encouraging kids to engage beyond the story.
Why Polly and the Puffin Resonates
Polly and the Puffin has carved a special place in children’s literature, especially for early readers transitioning to chapter books. Its gentle lessons about empathy and environmental stewardship resonate with parents, while kids adore Neil’s cheeky personality. Reviews praise the series for its heartwarming narrative and ability to captivate young audiences, with many calling it a perfect read-aloud for bedtime.
The series’ niche appeal—centered on a quirky puffin and a coastal setting—gives it a unique charm, standing out in a crowded genre. Its lasting impact lies in its ability to spark curiosity about wildlife and foster a love for reading, making it a beloved choice for classrooms and cozy family nights.
- Publication Years: 2015–2017
- Number of Books: 4
- Target Age: 5–8 years
- Illustrator: Thomas Docherty
Grab Polly and the Puffin and dive into a seaside adventure full of laughter and love! Whether you’re reading to a little one or passing it to an early reader, this series is sure to make waves in your heart.