Ducks!

Captivated by a butterfly, a duckling wanders away from its three siblings in the pond. But when the duckling turns back to rejoin the group, it's panic-stricken to find that the pond now has "NO DUCKS!" Readers follow along as Underwood and McBeth (cocreators of Ogilvy) take the pert protagonist through a series of funny false leads: single-plane, minimalist black-line vignettes, with accents in orange and sky blue, begin with a hopeful interrogative--"DUCKS?" --only to be followed by a crestfallen "NO DUCKS" (the all-caps typography makes the mouth-tickling repetition of "ducks" all the more satisfying). A promising "SQUAWK SQUAWK" belongs to a brass band; web-footed footprints belong to a kid in flippers. After registering emotions ranging from despondency to "give me a break," the duckling is inspired to tack up a "LOST DUCKS" notice on a utility pole, then realizes the siblings have done the same, and a joyful reunion ensues at the pond. Get ready to quack a smile--or several. Ages 4-8. Author's agent: Erin Murphy, Erin Murphy Literary Agency. Illustrator's agent: Kirsten Hall, Catbird Productions. (Feb.)

Toddler-PreS-Four little ducks are quacking along when one gets distracted and wanders off. The poor thing isn't gone long, but when it turns around there are "no ducks!" Hearing a sound, he investigates. Sadly, there are "no ducks" again. Trail after trail leads to the same, prompting various exaggerated expressions from the cartoonish character. This happens until an idea strikes, and a heartfelt family reunion occurs. Underwood's (The Panda Problem, The Quiet Book) latest has a minimalist aesthetic, both in terms of text and illustrations, that works magnificently for toddlers. Everything has a solid blue, orange, white, or black color, including the repeating phrases and onomatopoeia words which are boldly splattered every few pages. Spreads follow the formulaic question-and-response format, which, along with other elements such as clues, offer plenty of opportunities to interact with a storytime audience. VERDICT Caregivers may recognize their own wandering toddler in this funny, yet reassuring title. An excellent read-aloud choice for home and in larger groups.--Rachel Forbes, Oakville Public Library, Ont.