The talented team who brought you the Caldecott Honor winner Click, Clack, Moo turn their sights on politics in this knee-slapping picture book starring a duck with designs on public office.
Back on the farm, Duck is fed up with chores that leave him "picking
tiny bits of grass and espresso beans out of his feathers." So with a
sign that reads "Farmer Brown Must Go! Farm Election Tomorrow!" the
ambitious bird throws his hat in the ring, launching a remarkably
successful political career. After winning the barnyard election, Duck
realizes that his situation hasn't improved, and he decides to turn his
attention to the governorship -- and the presidency. As it turns out,
our web-footed friend has a positive gift for campaigning. He connects
with voters through pancake breakfasts, parades, and television
appearances and lands himself in the Oval Office! Sound like a great
job? "'Running the country is no fun at all,'" thinks Duck, and with
the "help" of a help-wanted ad, he peacefully retires to do what all
great presidents do to preserve their legacy.
Cronin and Lewin's tale is just the ticket for lighthearted inspiration
and serious laughter. Clever illustrations of Duck striking
presidential poses -- including a tongue-in-cheek scene of him
pondering his "fowl" fate in rough times -- are simply hysterical,
making this a silly read for young kids and an even funnier one for
more sophisticated types. No quacks about it, our vote goes to this
dynamic duck. Matt Warner