Make Way For Ducklings

 Module 1: Review 3

Bibliography	McCloskey, R. (1976). Make way for ducklings. Viking Books.  ISBN 0140564349
Plot Summary	Robert McCloskey’s Make Way For Ducklings is about a mother and father mallard duck who are seeking a new home for themselves and their eight ducklings. Throughout the story, there is a problem in each of the locations around Boston that would be too dangerous for her babies. Mr. Mallard left for a week to travel while Mrs. Mallard taught all eight ducklings how to stay safe. Michael, the local police officer, sees the family of ducks and helps them navigate Boston safely to reach the public garden, where they plan to meet Mr. Mallard. The city of Boston love seeing the ducks travel through and Mrs. Mallard falls more in love with their new home.
Critical Analysis	Make Way for Ducklings is now viewed as a classic children's story. It provides a look back in time through its detailed black and white illustrations and depiction of 1940s fashion and automobiles. Robert McCloskey was awarded the Caldecott Medal in 1942 for this picture book, This classic story is endearing and is a great read for children. This book shows the love that Mr. and Mrs. Mallard have for their upcoming children and shows that they want the best for them. After the ducklings hatch, Mr. Mallard's leaving can be seen as abandonment or a father who is not involved in helping raise their children. Students who have a parent like this are the ones who will relate with that idea the most, but it also shows the time when the book was published. The dad duck could be going to work, then coming back home. This book I feel today is outdated for current younger students' attention but children nine and above will have a better understanding. I read it to my seven-year-old, and she kept losing focus but my nine-year-old enjoyed it. My nine-year-old asked questions about it and said the only thing she wished was that it was in color. This gave me the opportunity to teach about how books were illustrated and published back then. I would not have this book in my collection for home, only because it would collect dust. Overall, Make Way for Duckling is a happy feel good book that shows how people can still be good and show kindness.
Review Excerpts	“One of the merriest picture books ever.”—The New York Times
Connections	Have students research what animals live in big cities safely. Learn about ducks and their habitats. Learn about different cities and locations.