Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that Duck is proactive when he doesn't like the way things are run in the barnyard -- instead of complaining, he runs for office.
Families can talk about the way Duck set about trying to create change. Was it an effective way? How did he bring the other animals together for his cause? Do you think this is the way political campaigns are run outside the barnyard as well?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Dawn Friedman
Like all the books in the Farmer Brown series, this one is pretty funny even if some of the jokes will go over kids' heads. That's all right because they'll enjoy the story even as the grown-ups are smirking as they read it aloud.
As it turns out, Duck will remind readers of other politicians they might know (right down to heading to the late-night talk shows for better exposure). The illustrations are a good match for the funny, quick-moving text, making this a strong addition to the Farmer Brown series, and a timely one at that. Kids too young to really get into the political process can easily grasp the big picture in barnyard terms.
From The Book
The governor demanded a recount.
Two sticky ballots were found stuck to the bottom of a plate of pancakes.
The new tally was:
Ms. Governor 299,999
Duck 300,002
The voters had spoken.
Duck was officially in charge.
Plot Summary:
As the bumper sticker says, "we have to be the change if we want a say," and Duck takes this to heart when he gets fed up with the same old routine in the farmyard. Rather than staging a coup d'etat, going on strike, or otherwise halting production, Duck gets to work campaigning, sure that he can do a better job than Farmer Brown. This decision sets him on the road to a true political career with unexpected results.
Related Books:
Other Books by the Author and Illustrator:
Dooby Dooby Moo
Click Clack Moo
Giggle Giggle Quack
Thump Quack Moo
More Politics for Kids:
Madame President: The Extraordinary, True (and Evolving) Story of Women in Politics by Catherine Thimmesh
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