Make Way for Ducklings

McCloskey, R. (1941). Make Way for Ducklings. Penguin Young Readers Group. ISBN978-0670451494

“Mr. and Mrs. Mallard grew tired looking for the perfect spot to raise their family. Stopping off for a rest in the city, they were delighted to find it had everything they wanted. But though there were no dangerous foxes or turtles,, there were still surprises in store for the Mallards and their newly hatched ducklings. An endearing childhood classic.”
(McCloskey, 1941, title page)

This delightful book, first published in 1941, is a timeless and engaging story. The opening pages follow the Mallards as they look for a home. Although the gender roles are stereotypical, the importance of family and home are central to the book. The script is easily accessible, and a joy to read no matter your age. When Policeman Michael enters the scene, the Mallards have an instant ally who has their best interest at heart. To the delight of many, the Mallards make their home in the Public Garden. And I, for one, had a sigh of relief when mom and dad and all eight ducklings were settled in their new home.

The illustrations are vintage style, shown in brown ink. They are simple and charming, and a perfect complement to the story. They instantly transport you to Boston from a past era.

This book is a simple and lovely glimpse into the family life of the Mallards, and I recommend it for readers of all ages.

Book Review Excerpts:

“This Caldecott Medal winner about Mrs. Mallard’s relocation of her eight little ducklings to Boston’s Public Garden (with the assistance of Policeman Michael) offers many math possibilities…Readers do not have to be Bostonians to recognize the practical applications of math in Make Way for Ducklings.”
Quinlan, Audrey M.. Horn Book Magazine , Jan/Feb2015, Vol. 91 Issue 1, p52-57

“The masterly, unshowy illustrations carry the narrative and characterizations and establish a particular time and place that becomes universal.”
McCulley, E. (2012). Horn Book.

Connections:

-This book may be helpful for children and families experiencing a move to a new school or city.

-There are many math activities that could accompany this book, ranging from simple math to map reading and plotting a path for the ducks.

Awards:

Caldecott Medal, 1942

This review was created as an assignment for SHSU LSSL 5360.