Cruise of a Lifetime: Mac in Montevideo follows Macaroni Penguin who manages to become the star entertainer on a cruise ship after sneaking aboard to search for food. Where did the idea for this book come from? 

Author Alexandrea Kleinsmith came up with the idea of Mac wandering onto a cruise ship for food after following her own nose on a tour of a cruise ship. 

I thought it would be great for Mac to became the star entertainer after winning over the hearts of both the crew and passengers at the talent show. 

Do you have a favorite scene in Mac’s story? One that was particularly fun to craft? 

I loved crafting Mac fixing the eyebrow-less penguin parade float in Montevideo. It is chaos with purpose. It’s funny for everyone. Kids can laugh at the silliness. Adults can laugh at the absurd logic. 

What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

Helping matters. Mac notices the float is missing eyebrows. Which is meant to demonstrate that you don’t need permission to care. Small problems are worth fixing. And helping can be joyful and creative.  

You can be brave in small, everyday ways. Mac doesn’t save the world. He saves a parade moment. 

Can we look forward to more adventures from Mac? What are you currently working on?

Cruise of a Lifetime: Mac in Rio de Janeiro will be published on February 13th. 

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