Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this book about relationships has nothing offensive for young readers.
Families can talk about why Thistle likes to brag. Why might she think that bragging about all the things she does better will make her new friends like her? How does it really make them feel? What kinds of things could she do differently?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Dawn Friedman
This sequel to Duck & Goose takes a developmental leap ahead of its predecessor. Duck and Goose have more rounded, more specific characters and there's more of a plot to follow. So most 2- and 3-year-olds who were fans of the first book may not appreciate this one right away.
In DUCK, DUCK, GOOSE, Duck and Goose are firm friends, having survived the conflicts of their first adventure. But a newcomer, Thistle, threatens their peaceful friendship.
Thistle is chatty, bossy, and very competitive. She pushes Goose around and asserts her authority by turning everything into a contest that she's going to win. Any kid who has spent time on the playground or at preschool will be able to identify with one of the three in this story. And just like real life, the final resolution isn't a neatly tied up happy ending -- there's definitely room for more in the series.
Hills retains his richly colorful illustrative style and his characters' personalities are effectively conveyed in their facial expressions and body language.
From The Book
"So what else do you do around here for fun?" quacked Thistle.
Duck looked at Goose. "We play," he said.
"I bet I'll win," quacked Thistle.
"We run around the meadow or kick our ball," said Goose. "There is no winning."
"Then why bother?" said Thistle. "Last one to the top of the hill is a rotten egg." And off she ran.
"Well, I guess I'm the rotten egg," Goose said.
Plot Summary:
When Thistle arrives in the meadow, her boastful ways threaten the peaceful friendship of Duck and Goose.
Related Books:
Other Books about New Friends:
A Bargain for Frances by Lillian & Russell Hoban
Chester's Way by Kevin Henkes
Anna Banana and Me by Lenore Blegvad
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