Book Review: Learning about Puffins in Iceland

When we began planning our trip to Iceland I asked Payton to make a list of the things that she wanted to do the most during our stay. Number 3 on her list was to see the puffins. Unfortunately, the puffins in Iceland migrate during the winter and would not be there during our visit. Although she was disappointed that she would not see them in person, we were lucky enough to receive an invitation around the same time to review a new book in the Puffin Explorers series from RA Anderson: Puffins Encounter Fire & Ice.

Disclaimer: Ascot Media Group & RA Anderson gifted us the Puffin Explorers books, however, as always, all opinions are our own.

Have you ever heard of a puffin?

My first thought was – what exactly is a puffin? Puffins are actually a species of seabird in the Auk family (Alcidae) that breed in and around Iceland. The Icelandic word for puffin is lundi. These birds are absolutely adorable, so we were excited to learn more about them!

Puffins in Iceland

Where to find puffins in Iceland

Iceland’s puffin season runs from early April through to September. There are lots of spots where you can see puffins in Iceland during the summer. Dyrhólaey is the closest to Reykjavik, only 2.5 hours’ drive. Other spots include Heimaey island, in Vestmannaeyjar; Borgarfjörður eystri; and Papey island. Visit the Iceland Tourism website for more information.

Where to learn about puffins in the off-season

We were able to learn more about puffins and other seabirds at the Perlan Museum during our visit to Iceland in winter. With life-size displays, and lots of information about their habitat and lifecycle, we look forward to one day returning to Iceland to see them in person during the summer!

Learn about our adventures staying in an igloo hotel in Iceland!

Puffin Book Review

As luck would have it, a few days after we arrived in Iceland I received a press release email about a series of books on puffins asking if we would like to review a copy. How timely was that? We accepted the offer and the books were waiting for us when we arrived back in the States. Payton did not waste any time and began reading the first one the day we arrived home. I knew the book was special because she could not put it down.

The Puffin Explorers series by RA Anderson

I assumed that these books were just for kids, but after reviewing them myself, I was amazed at the wonderful information and beautiful photos that are found within. The books are full of facts about Iceland and include actual photos taken by the author while visiting the country. It was almost as if we were reliving some of the sites from our trip in the pages of the books! As a homeschooling mom, I also appreciate that each book includes a glossary and is perfect for incorporating into our learning activities.

Payton’s Review of the Puffin Explorers books

This book is a very helpful guide about puffins. It is narrated by two pufflings (baby puffins) named Arni and Birta. There are interesting facts on every page and great pictures too. It isn’t just about puffins; there is also information on other animals such as Icelandic horses, lambs, arctic foxes, and more! You can also learn about Iceland, where the book is based. R.A. Anderson, the person who wrote the book, is a very good author. There are two other books like this one. I hope you like them!

Payton Biggers, age 10

Payton’s favourite facts about puffins

The Puffin Explorers series of books not only tell a story, but offer really interesting facts about puffins in Iceland. From their breeding habits, their habitat, and remarkably unique traits and habits. Screenshots from Payton’s favourite pages are below:

Join The Adventure As Playful Puffins Encounter Fire And Ice

Payton thought it was very cool that the author, RA Anderson, now lives in the same state we do – Georgia! She is hoping to have the chance to meet her one day and also read more of her works. Here is an excerpt from the press release for new book in the series, Puffins Encounter Fire & Ice:

“Puffins Encounter Fire & Ice is the third installment in RA Anderson’s delightful Iceland: The Puffin Explorers Series, and this time around, Iceland’s natural wonders take center stage. Árni and Birta discover glaciers, volcanoes, natural energy, lava fields, waterfalls and some of the legendary folk of Iceland. But as nightfall draws closer, Árni’s parents must step up their frantic search for these two curious puffins to help guide them back to their burrows before dark. Will they succeed? Join the adventure to find out!

For more information, please visit ra-anderson.com, or connect with her on social media at https://www.facebook.com/raAndersonAuthor/; @aruthanne Instagram; @ra_anderson_author Instagram; or @aruthanne Twitter. “

Ascot Media Group

This book trailer video (from ra-anderson.com) contains wonderful information about the books!

Learning about Puffins in Iceland

We really appreciate Ascot Media Group for allowing Payton to learn more about the wonderful puffins in Iceland. RA Anderson does an excellent job in bringing to life the adorable duo Arni and Birta, and making it informative as well as fun!

Check out Payton’s other reviews: National Geographic Almanac + Little Passports Subscription Boxes

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