"Based on a true story"--Page 1 of cover

"Tom Michell is teaching at an Argentine school. Holidaying in Uruguay one winter, he rescues a penguin from an oil slick. But, afterwards, the bird won't leave his side. He has no choice. Smuggling the penguin across the border, Tom takes his new friend home. Named Juan Salvador, the bird becomes the school rugby team mascot, the housekeeper's confidant, the host at Tom's parties and the most flamboyant swimming coach in history. This plucky penguin transforms the lives of all he meets. But Tom knows that his friendship with Juan Salvador cannot last for ever"--Page 4 of cover

"First published by Michael Joseph 2015 Published in Penguin Books 2016 Reissued in this edition 2025"--Title page verso

Includes reading group questions