Parents' Guide to

Make Way for Ducklings

By Sally Snyder, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 2+

Kids and parents enjoy this story about family.

Book Robert McCloskey Picture Book 1969
Make Way for Ducklings Poster Image

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What you will—and won't—find in this book.

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What's the Story?

Honk, honk! \"Quack!\" Watch out for the cars, Mrs. Mallard! She must convey her eight ducklings safely across several busy Boston streets to the Public Garden so they can meet their father. Children and parents will enjoy sharing this endearing story about family. The illustrations are all in sepia charcoal, which will disappoint some kids used to full color.

Is It Any Good?

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

Family is the central theme in this engaging Robert McCloskey classic. The mallard ducks illustrate love and care in the family. McCloskey describes the adult ducks carefully selecting a nesting site and, later, teaching the ducklings basic survival skills. Tension and adventure are created in the story during their dangerous trip across busy streets to get to the Public Garden and safety.

Today's children respond with enthusiasm and affection for the ducks and ducklings, barely noticing the dated cars or police officer's uniform. Sepia-toned charcoal art on cream-colored paper conveys the story's gentle love and warmth. Today's children, however, may find the one-tone illustrations dull. Children will appreciate being able to count all eight ducklings in each illustration of the family and will check to see that all are present.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the duck family's search for a good home. What do they need for a good place to live? Did this book make you think differently about how "regular" people things might seem to animals?

Book Details

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