Hey, Duck! (Duck and Cat Tale)
on Goodreads (363)
What’s inside...
Perfect for fans of Mo Willems' Elephant and Piggie series! An adorable little duckling is trying to befriend another "duck," but he is oblivious to the fact that his potential pal is actually a cat. Though resistant and stubborn at first, the cat soon realizes labels don't matter in the least--and before you know it, meowing and quacking are one and the same.Look for these other books featuring Duck and Cat:Just a Duck!Sleepover Duck (available 1/2/18)Praise for Carin Bramsen's Duck and Cat books!Hey, Duck!"A sweet, tender and charming experience to read aloud or together." - Kirkus Reviews". . . should tickle preschoolers." - Publishers WeeklyJust a Duck?"Outstanding . . . An endearing story for group or one-on-one sharing." - School Library Journal"The tale is equal in every way to the visual appeal . . . Sweet, tender and delightful." - Kirkus Reviews"A gently funny story of the differences, similarities, and compromises that make for rewarding friendships" - Publishers Weekly 2016 Buckeye Book Award nominee!
Why read this book
- Vibrant illustrations captivate and engage young minds.
- Story emphasizes friendship and acceptance.
- Encourages empathy and understanding in children.
- Ideal for shared reading and discussion.
Age
0-3
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Duck
The Cat
Discussion points
How do you think Duck felt when he met Cat for the first time?
What are some ways Duck and Cat are different from each other? How are they similar?
Why do you think it's important for Duck and Cat to be friends even though they're different?
Can you think of a time when you made a friend who was different from you? How did you feel?
What do you think Duck and Cat will do next in their adventure?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the themes of friendship and acceptance as they relate to their own experiences. Use the illustrations in the book to point out expressions and actions of Duck and Cat that highlight their emotions and interactions. Ask your child to imagine and talk about what they would do in similar situations as the characters, promoting empathy and understanding. Highlight the value of embracing differences and finding common ground, reinforcing the message through personal examples and family stories.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: In 'Hey, Duck!' a mismatched pair, Duck and Cat, form an unlikely friendship despite their differences. The story demonstrates that friendship can blossom between anyone, regardless of their backgrounds or appearances.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of being open to friendships with peers who might seem different from them, fostering inclusivity and understanding from a young age.
Example Lesson: Acceptance and belonging
Explanation: Cat initially struggles with feeling like he doesn’t quite belong with Duck and the other ducks. The story showcases his journey towards self-acceptance and finding his place.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of accepting themselves as they are and recognizing that everyone has a unique place where they belong.
Example Lesson: Resolving misunderstandings
Explanation: The book highlights a moment of misunderstanding between Duck and Cat, which they work through together. This teaches children the importance of clear communication and forgiveness.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by learning to address misunderstandings through conversation and forgiveness, helping to build stronger, more understanding relationships.
Example Lesson: Expressing feelings
Explanation: Throughout the book, Duck and Cat express their feelings honestly, which helps them understand each other better.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the significance of expressing their own emotions and listening to others’ feelings to foster empathetic connections.
Example Lesson: Adapting to new situations
Explanation: Cat learns to adapt to a new environment and new friends, demonstrating resilience and openness to change.
Real-World Application: This lesson can empower children to embrace change positively and with confidence, helping them navigate new situations in their lives.