Make way for ducklings

BIBLIOGRAPHY

McCloskey, Robert . 1941. MAKE WAY FOR DUCKLINGS Ill. by Robert McCloskey. New York, NY: Penguin Group. ISBN 0140564349

PLOT SUMMARY

Robert McCloskey tells the story of Mr. and Mrs. Mallard and their ducklings. The adventure begins with the duck couple trying to find the perfect place in Boston to raise their future family. When they meet some trouble along the way they meet a few Bostonians, including Michael the Cop, who lead them on the way to finding the best home for their family.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Robert McCloskey writes an adventure story through Boston about a mallard couple who are looking for a place to call their home. The images in the story are in black and white and are often characterized by smudging to add depth to the illustrations. The illustrations of iconic locations around Boston help the reader become immersed in the city landscape. The ducks are drawn very neatly and add to the pride Mr. and Mrs. Mallard feel about their family. The clear, easy to read text allows readers to stay engaged in the illustrations while being able to easily keep the illustrations separate.

The duck’s humor will reach many kids and keep them interested in their adventures. Many students will be able to relate to the mishaps that happen along the way. The mother is constantly trying to keep the many ducklings together while navigating a new city. Many students can relate to a mother or mother figure that tries to keep them out of trouble and away from danger. There are many humans throughout the story that help the ducklings on their way as well. You can truly understand a mother’s love through the actions of Mrs. Mallard, being fearful when there is danger and pride when humans compliment her family.

The themes of sacrifice, love and persistence and very evident throughout the journey of the ducklings. The father thinks first of his family while trying to find a suitable place to live while the mother leads her ducklings to their new home. This books tells a wonderful story of a family of ducks that has been enjoyed by children for 50 years and hopefully 50 more.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

• The Caldecott Medal Award
• Starred review in NEW YORK TIMES: "one of the merriest picture books ever"
• Starred review in CHILDREN’S LITERATURE: "The quaint story of the mallard family's search for the perfect place to hatch ducklings. ... For more than fifty years’ kids have been entertained by this warm and wonderful story."

CONNECTIONS

• Is a wonderful read aloud book for adventure lovers
• “I really loved the ducklings in the story. They reminded me of me and my brother!” -Trent, 2nd Grader
• If you liked this story you may like another of Robert McCloskey’s books:
• McCloskey, Robert. BLUEBERRIES FOR SAL. ISBN 0873589041
• Caldecott Honor Book