A fable-like tale, “the Wolf the Duck & the Mouse,” takes the reader on an unusual journey. “Oh, woe! said the mouse.” as he appears in the wolf’s stomach, eaten by the beast. To the mouse’s surprise, the duck sleeps there and is not pleased to find his new visitor. But gradually, the relationship between duck and mouse warms up by preparing and sharing meals. The animals show unexpected reactions: the duck likes it there, and the mouse wants to stay and party with his friend, leading to the wolf’s trouble, who nearly explodes from stomach aches. The wolf’s noise catches the hunter’s attention, who changes his plans and runs away, astounded by the mouse and duck’s behaviour; in return for saving his life, the wolf wishes to return the gesture. If one follows the illustrations closely, the reader can find out what they have been granted.
“the Wolf the Duck & the Mouse” by Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen, is a picture book with a different approach regarding prose and illustrations. From a title that starts with a lowercase letter to a non-traditional setting – the wolf stomach to drawings in not so mainly children’s colours – makes the story intelligently stimulating and visually provocative for pupils and adults alike.
It stands out!
The Stats:
- Title: the Wolf, the Duck & Mouse
- Author and Illustrator: Mac Barnett & Jon Klassen
- ISBN-10: 9781406377798
- Publication Date: 2017
- Page Count: 40
- Publisher: Walker Books
- Recommended age: 4-7
- Categories/Topic: Animals, Friendship
Further Information:
If you loved the Wolf the Duck & the Mouse, check out more information about its author and illustrator:
- Visit Mac Barnett’s website
- Watch Mac Barnett’s TED September 2014
- Download educational resources for the classroom
Where to Find it:
