Ducks in a Row

March 1, 2011

K-Gr 2-Houran has created a story based on Urbanovic's Max the Duck character using short, simple sentences and a lot of repetition. Max is spending the evening with Bordy, Dakota, Bebe, and the kittens. He is trying to decide what to do when Aunt Pat, Aunt Dot, and Aunt Flo stop by to visit before the first snowfall sends them flying south for the winter. The aunts keep Max busy with requests-to take their luggage, make snacks, run baths, turn on the lamps, etc. Max is glad to feel useful, but over the next few days he becomes exhausted, and he is relieved to see the first snowflake. Emerging readers will empathize with Max and will enjoy thinking about changing roles with their own caregivers. The colorful illustrations exude emotional expression and frenetic movement and will support repeated readings and viewing, which may be necessary to comprehend this lively plot and full cast of characters. Children will enjoy the results of their collaboration with Urbanovic.-Laura Scott, Farmington Community Library, MI

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