Make Way for Ducklings

Title: Make Way for Ducklings
Author/Illustrator: Robert McCloskey
Genre: Fantasy
Awards: Caldecott Medal (1942)
Grade Level: PK - 3

Mr. and Mrs. Mallard were looking for a good place to raise their family. They tried to settle in Boston Public Garden where the people would feed them peanuts but it would be too dangerous for their babies. They flew around Boston and finally built a nest by the Charles River which was still close to the Public Garden. They had eight ducklings and Mrs. Mallard taught the ducklings necessary survival skills. Once they were well trained, she took them towards the Public Garden. They had to cross the road and quacked loudly but the cars would not stop. Michael, the policeman, helped them safely cross the street. Michael called for backup to help the ducks reach the Public Garden. The family then lived on the island in the pond of the Public Garden. Published in 1941, the illustrations are made with sepia charcoal and contain some outdated elements such as the old-style cars and policemen. The book is printed on larger paper which makes it ideal for read-aloud. A children's book classic, it had inspired an annual Duckling Day parade in Boston. Students can learn about different animal habitats and what makes it safe from predators. They can also see the world differently from an animal's perspective.

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