Parents' Guide to

In the Rain With Baby Duck

By Jennifer Gennari, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 2+

This is a solid beginning reader.

Book Amy Hest Picture Book 1995
In the Rain With Baby Duck Poster Image

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What's the Story?

Wet feet, wet face, and mud make Baby Duck grumpy. Ducks are supposed to like the rain, but not Baby Duck. Her parents' relentless efforts to cheer her up will not do. It's Grandpa's kindness and the new boots and umbrella that do the job in this solid story.

Is It Any Good?

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

Every kid will recognize how Baby Duck is feeling about the rain. Amy Hest has captured the dynamics of family relationships well, making this a satisfying read for grown-ups, too. Baby's song is mistaken for a happy one by her parents. The parents' vain attempts to smooth over Baby's unhappiness will have adults smiling to themselves.

This is a solid beginning reader. Amy Hest weaves in and repeats some words preschoolers may not know, such as dawdle and dally. When children see how Baby Duck drags, they understand the meaning, and they learn what it means to shimmy and waddle. The oversize format, and bright illustrations by Jill Barton, complement Hest's narrative. Children like the red bunny boots and matching umbrella, and they can tell how grumpy Baby Duck is by her expression as she lifts her feet out of the mud.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about making an unhappy situation better. How do the boots and umbrella help Baby Duck? What do you do to make rain or snow more fun?

Book Details

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