One Duck - Softcover

Kindergarten-Grade 2-A duck nests in a field and goes about the business of hatching her eggs. A farmer, who doesn't know about her, decides it's time to turn the soil. As his tractor gets closer and closer to the hidden nest, the animal senses danger, but is determined to protect her eggs, and flies off only at the last possible moment. Seeing the duck, the farmer stops his tractor and moves the nest. The next day, the duck is seen leading her newly hatched ducklings to a pond. The story is written in a lyrical style that effectively sets the mood and tone. This is especially evident in the scene where the duck senses the approaching danger. The careful choice of words greatly enhances the dramatic effect. Because of its somewhat sophisticated vocabulary, the book is more suited to reading aloud than as a title for newly independent readers. Watercolor illustrations add to the overall mood. The duck never comes across as a fully developed character, but the tale's setting and emotional impact give it a great deal of depth, allowing readers to become involved in the action and excitement. Try pairing this with Robert McCloskey's Make Way for Ducklings (Viking, 1941) for a different, but equally satisfying look at the lives of wild ducks.
Arwen Marshall, New York Public Library
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