About the Book: The book recounts the true story of Tom Michell, a free-spirited young man who takes a teaching job at a prestigious Argentine boarding school in the 1970s. While on holiday in Uruguay, he rescues an oil-covered penguin, whom he names Juan Salvador. Despite initially not wanting a pet, the penguin refuses to leave his side, forcing Tom to smuggle him back to the school. Juan Salvador quickly becomes a beloved, eccentric fixture in the community—acting as a rugby mascot, a confidant, a party host, and a swimming coach—ultimately transforming the lives of everyone, especially Tom, who finds an unforgettable companion.