Every Story Starts with a spark: "Kenny and His Great Invention."

Kenny and His Great Invention was inspired by a wonderful Canadian couple — he, a physicist; she, a psychology student and polyglot.
They loved penguins and filled their home with them in all shapes and sizes. When I opened my daycare, they gifted me my first — a humongous penguin! 
After a fruitful and inspiring life, he sadly passed away during the pandemic, but his kindness, curiosity, and love for learning continue to inspire me.
This story was written in his honor — a reminder that creativity, love, and friendship can live on through what we share with others.

by emma ugarelli

In this heartwarming tale, Kenny, a curious and clever penguin, loves spending his time building and creating different objects. One morning, he wakes up with a brilliant idea for the local science competition: he wants to build a spaceship! 
Not only does Kenny hope to win, but he also dreams of being the first penguin to go to space. With the help of his best friend Louise, he works tirelessly to bring his invention to life.
But when it’s time to present his project, something goes wrong — the spaceship engine falls apart right in front of the crowd. The audience is disappointed, and Kenny feels defeated. Will he and Louise figure out what went wrong? Can Kenny repair his spaceship and follow his dream among the stars?
Through Kenny’s journey, young readers learn about friendship, perseverance, forgiveness, and the joy of discovery. The story reminds children that mistakes are part of learning — and that imagination can take us anywhere.
 Kenny and His Great Invention is available in English and Spanish on Amazon and at www.emmasplace.ca.