Parents' Guide to

Duck, Duck, Goose

By Dawn Friedman, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 4+

New friend brings conflict to Duck and Goose.

Book Tad Hills Picture Book 2007
Duck, Duck, Goose Poster Image

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What's the Story?

When Thistle arrives in the meadow, her boastful ways threaten the peaceful friendship of Duck and Goose.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

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.

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 here, and his characters' personalities are effectively conveyed in their facial expressions and body language.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • 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?

Book Details

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