Barnyard in Your Backyard: A Beginner's Guide to Raising Chickens, Ducks, Geese, Rabbits, Goats, Sheep, and Cows

Book Description

When is the right time to shear a sheep? Is there a market for manure? What time of day is best to collect eggs? What is the correct way to milk a goat? What does a duck eat? Can a cow and a sheep share the same pasture? Which types of rabbits are easiest to raise?

The perfect book for anyone who has ever dreamed of having that little place in the country, Barnyard in Your Backyard offers tried-and-true, expert advice on raising healthy, happy, productive farm animals: chickens, geese, ducks, rabbits, goats, sheep, and dairy cows.

Each chapter focuses on a different animal, discussing the pros and cons of raising the animal, housing and land requirements, feeding guidelines, health concerns, and a schedule for routine care. Species that are easy to raise, hardy, and companionable are profiled. First-time farmers will discover simple, clear instructions for caring for animals throughout the year, as well as guidelines for processing barnyard products such as milk, wool, and eggs. Combining practical advice from real experts, easy-to-use checklists and charts, a seasonal care calendar, and detailed black-and-white illustrations, Barnyard in Your Backyard offers a comprehensive review of the ins and outs - the tribulations and triumphs - of living with and caring for a small barnyard.

Customer Reviews:

Fantastic!.......2007-09-09

This book tells you everything you need to know for the novice to the experienced. Suggestions for those who want ornamental animals to the getting down to farming people. Pictures are great. Highly suggest this book!

great book!.......2007-08-10

This book works great and spells everything out very easily. Not the most comprehensive I am sure but I actually learned alot from it. I was mostly interested in chicken and sheep as well as ducks and geese. great book for a beginner like myself.

Excellent book, on various farm animals.......2007-08-08

This book is a wealth of knowledge! I own lots of books on raising ducks and chickens, and I have to say this book matches up well with all of my other books. Why is this impressive? Because the other books I'm comparing this book to are books that deal with only one type of animal (ducks, geese, chickens, exc). This book gives almost the same amount of detail as my other books plus it covers: Chickens, Ducks, Geese, Rabbits, Sheep, and Cattle. If your going to raise three or more different forms of live stock as a hobby, this is the only book you will need. If your going to try your hand at commercial production than you will need other books to supplement this book. I gave this 4 stars because the chicken and duck sections were not quite a thorough as some of my other books I own (though it came amazingly close). This is a no brainer purchase for anyone raising three or more of the animals listed above. A must buy...

Best farm book yet.......2007-07-19

Have read lots of books in trying to get spun up on hobby farm life, and this by far takes the cake as number one animal 101. It is well presented, covers all the facts and includes diagrams and discriptions. Will recommend to others as first resource to start with.

it is what the title says!.......2007-07-05

if you've just moved somewhere with a little land and are thinking of adding a few farm-type animals to your yard, this is a great book. It will tell you the demands that each of these little furry/fluffy/downy creatures will make on you, your property, and your bank account! The author gives a great overview of each of the animals mentioned in the title. BUT once you actually purchase the critters, you'll probably need a book that gives more in-depth information, especially in the health area. A great book to help you make educated decisions about what to toss in your ark!!

Average customer rating:

This was a very funny book!
Hot Diggety Dog - your kids will love this!
Not as good as the "Bus" or "Stay up Late" books
love it love it love it
A Morsel of Gem

Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog!, The

Manufacturer: Hyperion
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0786818697

Amazon.com

Sesame Street veteran and Emmy Award-winner Mo Willems returns with a fast, funny follow-up to Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!--only this time, the short-tempered pigeon faces his perfect foil in a "special guest star" duckling. In the previous Pigeon book, author and illustrator Willems expertly distilled the escalating emotions of preschoolers all too anxious to get their way. The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog--also a simple and sparsely illustrated story--explores the flip side of that coin, exposing the poker-face persuasive powers of young negotiators. The pigeon just wants to greedily eat the hot dog that he's found: "Oooooh! A hot dog! Yummy! Yummy! Yummy!" Then along comes the duckling, "scooty scoot scoot!" with his insistent questions about hot dogs: "What do they taste like?...Would you say that it tastes like chicken?...Hey, I'm a curious bird." At first, the pigeon entertains the duckling, "Each morsel is a joy! A celebration in a bun!", but then he soon suspects the little bird might have designs on his delicious dog. In the end, of course, the clever duckling gets his way--and half of the hot dog: "You know, you're pretty smart for a duckling." (Ages Baby to Preschool) --Paul Hughes

Book Description

Sesame Street veteran and Emmy Award-winner Mo Willems returns with a fast, funny follow-up to Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!--only this time, the short-tempered pigeon faces his perfect foil in a "special guest star" duckling.In the previous Pigeon book, author and illustrator Willems expertly distilled the escalating emotions of preschoolers all too anxious to get their way. The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog--also a simple and sparsely illustrated story--explores the flip side of that coin, exposing the poker-face persuasive powers of young negotiators. The pigeon just wants to greedily eat the hot dog that he's found: "Oooooh! A hot dog! Yummy! Yummy! Yummy!" Then along comes the duckling, "scooty scoot scoot!" with his insistent questions about hot dogs: "What do they taste like?...Would you say that it tastes like chicken?...Hey, I'm a curious bird." At first, the pigeon entertains the duckling, "Each morsel is a joy! A celebration in a bun!", but then he soon suspects the little bird might have designs on his delicious dog. In the end, of course, the clever duckling gets his way--and half of the hot dog: "You know, you're pretty smart for a duckling." (Ages Baby to Preschool) --Paul Hughes

Customer Reviews:

This was a very funny book!.......2007-08-31

This book is very funny, and young kids as well as old will enjoy it very much.

Hot Diggety Dog - your kids will love this!.......2007-08-22

Kids love finding books about familiar characters and Mo Willems has created a new one with his comical pigeon. Instead of playing along with the reader, this time he answers to a little duckling who just wants a bite of his hot dog. The duckling is pretty sneaky and asks all kinds of questions (which drives the pigeon CRAZY) until finally the pigeon gives in and shares his hot dog with him. More great facial expressions and a simple story everyone will enjoy!

Not as good as the "Bus" or "Stay up Late" books.......2007-07-03

My daughter prefers this one to the others, probably because hot dogs are her favorite food. It's not interactive like the others, but it teaches sharing and has a cute, curious bird to make it fun.

love it love it love it.......2007-06-21

my daughters absolutely ADORE this book. it even inspried my daughter to start reading. it's just a clever and fun book that my daughters have reciting ever since the first time we read it.

A Morsel of Gem.......2007-04-15

It is amazing how in so few words and lines one of the most dreaded human behaviors can be exhibited as in this book: Conscience in the form of the Duckling wondering why the Pigeon doesn't do the right thing. And what a happy relief it is to do the right thing.

The Golden Egg Book (Big Little Golden Book)

Average customer rating:

Golden Egg Book
You won the golden egg
Must have!
My son loves it as much as I did
A true picturebook classic

The Golden Egg Book (Big Little Golden Book)
Margaret Wise Brown
Manufacturer: Golden Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 037582717X
Release Date: 2004-01-13

Book Description

Once there was a little bunny. He was all alone. One day he found an egg. He could hear something moving inside the egg. What was it?

So begins the Golden Easter classic about a bunny—and a little duck that is about to hatch!

Customer Reviews:

Golden Egg Book.......2007-04-02

I purchased this book for my grandson age 2. The book arrived promptly and brought back fond memories. It is still a classic!!

You won the golden egg.......2006-04-16

My children, Josh and Amy, loved this book. Congratulations on finding this.

Must have! .......2006-03-21

My mother used to read it to me and now I am reading it to my daugther (she's 2 1/2). It is a family favorite. The story is beautiful, touching, sweet, etc. I love the language/word choice used by the author. I could read it to my daughter every day and not get tired of it. And, the illustrations are exquisite. They are so detailed and beautiful. If you do not own this book, go and buy it. It's worth every penny. You will not be disappointed. They don't make them like this anymore! This is a classic.

My son loves it as much as I did.......2006-02-22

This was one of my favorite books growing up. We got it for my 3 year-old son, and he loves it as much as I do. The question of, "What is inside the egg?" is exciting, even though he now knows the answer. We have fun coming up with new possibilities, though.

Bottom line: this is a great, fun book for a toddler. I highly recommend it. It also is useful for parents trying to encourage a child's imagination.

A true picturebook classic.......2004-07-09

Charmingly written by Margaret Wise Brown and superbly illustrated by Leonard Weisgard, The Gold Egg Book is a true picturebook classic telling the story of the rambling imagination of one little bunny as he tries to figure out just what is inside a beautiful blue egg. A whole new generation of children ages 2 to 5 will delight in this lively story as the bunny tries to shake, push, and even jump on the egg in his attempts to break it. But the egg won't hatch until it is ready! The Golden Egg Book will prove to be an enthusiastically popular addition to family, preschool, and community library collections.

Average customer rating:

great book
Nice series promoting emotional growth...
This is a great book
A warm story evolves.
The Goose Girl

Duck, Duck, Goose
Tad Hills
Manufacturer: Schwartz & Wade
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0375840680
Release Date: 2007-02-13

Book Description

Duck & Goose, Goose & Duck. Feathered friends forever . . . or are they? That's what we discover in this charming and hilarious follow-up to the bestselling Duck & Goose. You see, there's a challenge to their friendship: a little whippersnapper of a duck named Thistle. Thistle's good at everything (or so she thinks), from math to holding her breath to standing on her head. Duck thinks she's fantastic. But Goose does not! And so Goose is faced with a problem close to the hearts of children everywhere: what happens when your best friend makes a new friend?

Customer Reviews:

great book.......2007-07-19

I love this book. It is so cute. I am a first grade teacher and parent of two (5 and 21/2) and my kids and class alike really enjoy hearing this book. Thie illustrations are colorful and the story can be used with many ages.

Nice series promoting emotional growth..........2007-07-16

A great sequel to the first book... "Duck and Goose" look like they'll be simplistic and overly-basic -- both the artwork and the text are deceptively plain -- but these little guys actually have a richer and more believable emotional life than many picturebook characters. The newcomer, Thistle, is one of the most believable brats to be seen on the printed page in quite a while... But you still gotta love her!

These books might not have a long shelf-life (kids will probably move on past them fairly quickly...) but while Duck and Goose they are your book friends, you're lives will be enriched. Definitely worth checking out! (ReadThatAgain!)

This is a great book.......2007-07-07

My 2 year old daughter received this book recently for her birthday and it is great. Tad Hills' ability to mix sarcasm and wit into a children's story is impressive. Of the 50 or so books she has, I put this in the top 5 that *I* enjoy reading. There aren't too many of those, especially when they get read several times a week.

I'm now looking to buy DUCK AND GOOSE.

A warm story evolves........2007-03-07

Tad Hills' DUCK, DUCK, GOOSE tells of a couple who are friends forever - until new duck Thistle comes along. Thistle impresses Duck - but Goose is NOT impressed. Can the three get along, or is somebody destined to be left out? A warm story evolves.

The Goose Girl.......2007-02-26

Ducks and geese are not immediately adorable creatures. Anyone who has ever been bitten by a duck or chased by a hissing goose will agree with me here. Yet due to that law of nature that states that any and all creatures must start out cute in order to survive (the sole exception being pandas), baby ducks and baby geese are nothing short of adorableness incarnate. With his first book "Duck and Goose", author/illustrator Tad Wade went from fabulous Halloween costumer designer and husband of half of Schwartz & Wade to a star in his own right. His book was the kind of cute that everyone can agree on. There is good cute in this world and there is bad cute (ala Disney Cuties) and Mr. Hills has successfully placed his creations in the former category. His first Duck & Goose book was a well-deserved hit and now a sequel is here to follow-up the tale. If a ball was the mysterious visitor in the first book, imagine what a mysterious talking visitor could do.

Goose doesn't know it, but there's a new duck in the pasture and it goes by the name of Thistle. One day, as Goose attempts to maintain the butterfly that has landed on his head, his act of concentration is disrupted by the untimely arrival of Duck and his new friend Thistle. Thistle is a small highly-competitive duckling, and she's extraordinarily eager to show off her prowess in everything from adding to balancing sticks to hopping on one foot. Goose competes against this little challenger for a while, but he just can't seem to best her in anything. As such, he goes off to do his own thing, leaving the two ducks together. Duck, however, finds that though Thistle is admirable, she's also a bit tiring. He locates Goose once more and when their over-achieving (not to say egotistical) neighbor arrives, they have a contest to see who can fall asleep the fastest for the longest. Thistle complies and the two remaining friends go off to play with their ball, happy in the knowledge that this is one game where no one has to come off as "the best".

This will sound like an odd compliment, but I'm going to mean every word of it. Children's books fall all too easily into the well-worn grooves of their predecessors. You have your Amelia Bedelia knock-offs, your Where the Wild Things Are knock-offs, your Eloise knock-offs, etc. The Frog and Toad knock-offs are what I'm thinking of in this particular case. Lots of books feature two friends where one is perpetually grumpy and the other perpetually sunny. One worries and the other flits about. I can think of five different books off the top of my head that fit this formula, and without having read this book you might think that the Duck and Goose qualify for this stereotype. What makes Mr. Hills work so remarkable, however, is that he's managed to put a great deal of characterization into Duck, Goose, and Thistle without complicating his narrative or making it overly familiar. Goose would seemingly be a perfect candidate for grouchiness, but there's a subtlety to his low-key enthusiasm. Goose is not pleased with the appearance of Thistle, but he has the wherewithal to keep such thoughts to himself. When Thistle grows too intolerable a personality to hang out with any longer, Goose simply leaves and does his own thing. He may be jealous of Duck's admiration of this new friend, but he doesn't dwell on it. Kids will undoubtedly feel Goose's jealousy for him, but because he doesn't make a federal case out of it, Duck soon sees how Thistle is just a bit "much" and is quick to join his old friend once more. And though this isn't a moralizing book, "Duck, Duck, Goose" teaches kids a very subtle lesson. Think your best friend's new pal is annoying? Give your buddy some space and that fact will soon be apparent to them as well. I also enjoyed the fact that right from the start it becomes clear that all of Thistle's posturing is probably overcompensation for her diminutive size. Her scream of "I'm not little" at the story's beginning is an excellent example of how a picture book author can give characters full three-dimensional personalities with a minimum of wordplay.

The art of Tad Hills is just a joy as well. As with its predecessor, "Duck, Duck, Goose begins with dreamy endpapers that begin and end our tale from a distance. Here is the meadow, the lily pond, and the shady thicket where everything takes place. Here, at the start, is Goose standing stock still with a butterfly perched on his head. And in the distance you can see Duck and Thistle talking, just before they rush in and disrupt Goose's complacency. Duck and Goose are their regular cute selves, but Thistle is an interesting addition. She is smaller than the other resident fowls and tries to make up for it by moving posing, and dancing about as much as she possibly can. The cover is a beautiful example of the façade she puts on. And can I say, by the way, that I loved that the ending of this book wasn't one where Thistle stops showing off and befriends Goose? That would have been SO easy for the author to do, and at the same time it would have been dull as dishwater to read. Instead, the two friends leave Thistle asleep under a bush and go play by themselves. That way, kids who grow to really dislike Thistle will cheer on her being left behind and kids who adore Thistle will see her nap as a way of winning a contest yet again. Ah, but back to the art. Bright clear colors, great expressions, and visual gags like a near-unconscious Goose conked out after losing a hold-your-breath contest make this book just a sheer pleasure to page through.

Some kids will undoubtedly bemoan the all-too-brief appearance of Bluebird in this book. After having established herself as the voice of reason in the first tale, it would have been nice to give her a little more page time here. Mr. Hills, however, is undoubtedly well-aware of this and I'm sure that once this book becomes the hit it is bound to be, he'll give the Bluebird her moment to shine in the sun. Until then, no one's going to complain at all about having more fun with Duck and Goose. It has all the elements of a classic picture book and, I dare say, is better than the first in the series. A must-have purchase if I ever saw one.

Average customer rating:

great book
Don't judge a book by looking at the cover...
The Book Every Library Needs!!
More than funny with great pictures
Kids will love this book

Duck and Goose

Manufacturer: Schwartz & Wade
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 037583611X
Release Date: 2006-01-24

Book Description

“That egg is mine! I saw it first,” says Goose. “I touched it first. It’s mine,” declares Duck.
Like James Marshall’s George and Martha, and Rosemary Wells’s Benjamin and Tulip, Duck and Goose have to work at getting along. You see, Duck doesn’t much care for Goose at first–and Goose isn’t fond of Duck–but both want the egg that each claims to be his. As the two tend to their egg, and make plans for the future, they come to appreciate one another’s strengths. And when a bluebird points out that it isn’t really an egg–it’s a polka dot ball–the two are not dismayed. After all, it is a lovely ball. . . .
Filled with humor that young children will appreciate–and recognize!–and starring two unforgettable characters, Duck & Goose has all the ingredients of a classic-in-the-making.

Customer Reviews:

great book.......2007-07-19

I love this book. This story is great. My first grade class loves this story. The illustrations are wonderful as is the story.

Don't judge a book by looking at the cover..........2007-07-16

"Duck and Goose" look like they'll be simplistic and overly-basic -- both the artwork and the text are deceptively plain... But these two little guys actually have a richer and more believable emotional life than many picturebook characters. They might not have a long shelf-life (kids will probably move on past them fairly quickly...) but while they are your book friends, your lives will be enriched. Definitely worth checking out. (ReadThatAgain!)

The Book Every Library Needs!!.......2007-05-14

When young duck and goose find a large, multi-colored, spotted "egg," bickering ensues. "I saw it first," proclaims Duck. "I touched it first," smirks Goose, putting one webbed foot on the egg. As the argument continues, over whose egg it is, and who will keep it warm until it hatches, a small blue bird looks on.

When the dust settles and feathers are unruffled, both Duck & Goose are atop the egg. As time passes, their arguments end, and they both begin to think of what they'll teach "their" little baby. "I'll teach it to quack like a duck," says Duck. "I'll teach it to honk like a goose," says Goose. "We'll teach it to fly," they both agree. And a tentative friendship is born.

Until that same little blue bird flies down to ask to join in their fun--asks, in fact, if she can play with their ball. "Ball?" they ask. "Well, of course we knew it was a ball. We had our doubts all along!"

This is a funny, delightful book with beautiful illustrations that any child can enjoy. A perfect bedtime story!

More than funny with great pictures.......2007-01-26

This book was highly recommended in a magazine I subscribe to, and after reading the reviews here I decided to purchase it for my 2-year-old son. It's not in his top ten favorites, but he really likes it - we read it a few times a week

One nice part of the storyline that I hadn't anticipated was that it clearly demonstrates the "stages" toddlers go through with their friends. As all parents of toddlers know, sharing is a very difficult thing for little ones (including duck and goose) to do. This book accurately and comically demonstrates this issue from the very beginning, but gradually the duck and goose begin to share their "egg," realizing that they can both care for it and enjoy having it.

I highly recommend this book. I gave it four stars instead of five because, although I can't put my finger on it, I feel it lacks the "spark" that makes a book really special. Sorry I can't be more specific.

Kids will love this book .......2007-01-12

Parents and kids alike will love this book. It has so many hidden lessons like cooperation, friendship, sharing, tolerance and the power of persuasion. It also is great to read to a group because it has an element of suspense and surprise. Great illustrations.

Average customer rating:

Hilarious illustrations, cute story
Sorry, I couldn't get into it...
Love it - bought one for my daughter and 2 for gifts!
A beautiful giggle, a memory maker
Super Duck

Duck at the Door

Manufacturer: HarperCollins
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0061214388
Release Date: 2007-01-23

Book Description

One winter night, a cozy house full of animals is awakened by a knock at the front door. They have no idea what they'll find on the other side, and Max the duck is the last thing they expect. Soon this larger-than-life houseguest is making himself at home—and forcing his way into the hearts of his reluctant hosts.

Customer Reviews:

Hilarious illustrations, cute story.......2007-08-15

I saw this lovely book at a fantastic Carnegie Library in Jefferson, Texas. The pictures in this book made me laugh out loud (usually frowned on in a library) and I vowed that I would get this book for our personal library at home. The illustrations are fantastic and encourage you to talk about what's going on in them. The story is also very cute. I highly recommend this book.

Sorry, I couldn't get into it... .......2007-08-11

Max the duck stays behind when his flock migrates away, and winds up living in a big house full of other animals. There, he learns how to watch TV and cook gourmet meals. This book might be okay for very young readers, but we couldn't get into it. One big problem was with the major emphasis on television as the central event in the house Max the duck lives in: no one does anything in this book except eat and watch tv. They don't read, they don't play games, they don't draw pictures, they don't go outside -- they just fight over what to watch and get angry with Max because he hogs the remote and cooks fancy food.

No wonder Max finally decided to fly South after all. (ReadThatAgain!)

Love it - bought one for my daughter and 2 for gifts!.......2007-06-13

This story is so funny and sweet - my daughter laughs when I read it to her and the illustrations are wonderful! After reading this delightful book, I bought one for my daughter and 2 to give as gifts. You can't go wrong with this story!!

A beautiful giggle, a memory maker.......2007-05-29

Do you recall curling up with a large picture book and a parent at the end of the day to read a beloved book? Of my few childhood memories, this is one I can readily summon up. Stored alongside this memory are the joyful moments I shared giggling with my daughter over a favorite book, doing voices and animal sounds. I think "Duck at the Door" could create such a golden memory for the newest generation and the adults that read with them.

The large picture book is cover to cover filled with vivid images of Duck and the animal clan. The images seem to me to be an update of the classic pictures from "Make Way for Ducklings", but this is probably how they feel to me since Duck evokes the classic story in my mind. As Jackie Urbanovic ventures into illustrating and writing her own books, "Duck at the Door" proves her ability to craft a fine, light- hearted story with laughs on every page. And true to form, her illustrations are superb.

A joyful welcome is provided Max the Duck as she finds her wet way to Irene's home. (Oh, I imagine Max is probably a male but I prefer to think of her as Maxime in my imagination.) You'll love the warmth and openness of the clan of characters who live with Irene in her menagerie of a home. I promise a chuckle a page at the cleverness and humor of Max mastering the remote to watch world wide wrestling, nudging his way into everyone's life and heart. It's a joy to find the jokes woven into the art and words. And with a cast of a thousand animals, you'll have a chance to choose voices for all the characters along the way.

My first introduction to "Duck at the Door" was the author sharing her hope that Max would find a good home, a safe place that all of us seek to soothe our souls. The author sincerely wants children and grownups to find the place they need to be and the comfort of love from a family unit whatever that family turns out to be. The depth of her yearning as she composed the story of Max seeking and finding such a place of the heart underlies the story. Here's hoping you find the joy I did when Max makes it back home. Your child will feel it, and if your heart is open you will too.

Let "Duck at the Door" build a memory in your childish heart and allow you, for just a moment, to share that warm safe comfort that Max finds.

Super Duck.......2007-05-14

This is a great little book with humor, a gentle message and quirky animals galore! Max the Duck is a engaging character that children of all ages will love. I recommend it highly! You really can't go wrong with this book as a gift.

Average customer rating:

If you've ever been a chew toy for a bird...you'll love this book.
Delightful reading!
Sweet, sad, and outrageously funny
Why Do People Think This is Funny?
Enslaved by Ducks review

Enslaved by Ducks
Bob Tarte
Manufacturer: Algonquin Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1565124502

Book Description

The book that Entertainment Weekly called "hilarious," Publishers Weekly declared "a true pleasure," Booklist called "heartwarming," and the Dallas Morning News praised as "rich and funny" is now available in paperback.

When Bob Tarte bought a house in rural Michigan, he was counting on a tranquil haven. Then Bob married Linda. She wanted a rabbit, which seemed innocuous enough until the bunny chewed through their electrical wiring. And that was just the beginning. Before long, Bob found himself constructing cages, buying feed, clearing duck waste, and spoon-feeding a menagerie of furry and feathery residents. His life of quiet serenity vanished, and he unwittingly became a servant to a relentlessly demanding family. "They dumbfounded him, controlled and teased him, took their share of his flesh, stole his heart" (Kirkus Reviews).

Whether commiserating with Bob over the fate of those who are slaves to their animals or regarding his story as a cautionary tale about the rigors of animal ownership, readers on both sides of the fence have found Tarte's story of his chaotic squawking household irresistible--and irresistibly funny.

Customer Reviews:

If you've ever been a chew toy for a bird...you'll love this book........2007-07-29

Enslaved by Ducks is the story of how the author Bob Tarte (a bonafide city slicker) gave in to his country girl wife, Linda when it came to getting a rabbit named Binky. Binky ends up being a terror on 4 legs for Bob. Bob ends up getting attached to Binky despite his relentless testing of Bob's temper. Bob ends up allowing Linda to expand their "herd". Pretty soon they have ducks, parrots and turkeys. Soon Bob realizes he's at the very bottom of the pecking order in his own home. He ends up sharing his dinner with parrots, nursing ducks back to health in his living room, building perches for turkeys and being used as a chew toy for a parrot.

I really enjoyed this book and I'm now reading the sequel to it called "Fowl Weather" by Bob Tarte.

Delightful reading!.......2007-07-09

Having personally been 'Enslaved by Ducks' the title caught my eye! I very much enjoyed reading this book with a vast array of animal characters and a never-ending list of animal encounters, this book is a FUN read. Initially, it is a little slow getting going. I bought the book based on the title and wanted to read about Ducks; I was somewhat disappointed when the first few chapters dealt mainly with pet rabbits, so it was slow going for me. Once I got past the bunny, etc. stories and into the Ducks and Geese it was a really good time AND I learned LOTS about pet Rabbits, too! A definite Must-Read for any animal lover!

Sweet, sad, and outrageously funny.......2007-03-29

This is a terribly fun series of fowl events. I was tempted to call it 'light reading' but that wouldnt be accurate. It feels like light reading but every page is chock full with this couples' adventures while they try to save, raise, and adopt a variety of critters. Its a good book to put down and pick up later - if you're like me and an inconsistent reader - and not be lost in the process.

The writing is wonderful. The analogies and descriptions are so clever and witty that i have to shout and laugh out loud. The husband and wife have diferent ways of looking at things (one is generally more pessimistic and the other deliciously optimistic), which makes things even more interesting of course.

This book is a blast. Its a delightful read.

Why Do People Think This is Funny?.......2007-03-23

I keep getting suckered in by these "funny animal stories" with high user feedback. I slogged all the way through Marley and Me and was ready to shoot myself by the end. OK, I laughed 5 times, but I grimaced 25 and the story was just not that interesting.

With Marley under my belt, my tolerance was way down, so I did not finish this book. However, after about 50 pages, I had not laughed once. Again, the story was not that interesting

Enslaved by Ducks review.......2007-02-07

Slow but funny reading. I read it in spurts. It is a book of his columns that were printed in the newspaper.

Make Way for Ducklings (Viking Kestrel Picture Books)

Average customer rating:

A love letter to Boston
A classic for a reason
Great value
Make Way for Ducklings
Make Way for Ducklings

Make Way for Ducklings (Viking Kestrel Picture Books)
Robert McCloskey
Manufacturer: Viking Juvenile
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0670451495

Amazon.com

It's not easy for duck parents to find a safe place to bring up their ducklings, but during a rest stop in Boston's Public Garden, Mr. and Mrs. Mallard think they just might have found the perfect spot--no foxes or turtles in sight, plenty of peanuts from pleasant passers-by, and the benevolent instincts of a kindly police officer to boot. Young readers will love the mother duck's proud, loving protection of her wee webbed ones, and those with fond memories of Boston will enjoy familiar locales, from Beacon Hill to Louisburg Square, and over the Charles River--often from a duck's-eye view. Robert McCloskey, creator of Blueberries for Sal, never fails to elicit happy story-time giggles from youngsters, and his soft, brown-toned, Caldecott-winning illustrations make this gentle world come alive. (Ages 3 to 8) --Karin Snelson

Book Description

This classic tale of the famous Mallard ducks of Boston is available for the first time in a full-sized paperback edition. Awarded the Caldecott Medal in 1941, Make Way for Ducklings has been described as "one of the merriest picture books ever" (The New York Times). Ideal for reading aloud, this book deserves a place of honor on every child's bookshelf. "Robert McCloskey's unusual and stunning pictures [have] long been a delight for their fun as well as their spirit of place." — The Horn Book

Customer Reviews:

A love letter to Boston.......2007-08-07

Mr. and Mrs. Mallard explore all the nooks and crannies of Boston and the Back Bay, before settling on the perfect place to raise their family. A true love letter to the Boston of 60 years ago (complete with Irish cops!), it is a classic that speaks to people from everywhere, and families worldwide, on the love and nurturing that parents show for their children.

A classic for a reason.......2007-06-25

This book was read to me, and I read it endlessly to my little sister and my daughter. Now I am reading it to my great-nephew, age three and a half, who fell instantly in love with it. He always lets out a little "whew!" of relief when Mrs Mallard and the ducklings make it through the gates of the Public Gardens. After about the fourth reading (there were two on that particular day) we went to a little park nearby where he insisted on playing out the story with me, complete with Mr and Mrs Mallard's dialogue. It is a ritual now.

This is an astonishingly involving book for small children. There is a practical but manageable level of threat (of traffic, which is very real and genuinely important for three and four year olds) with the assurance of adult help when it is needed, and the constant reassurance that they are being looked after. And adults can read it forever without getting bored!

Great value.......2007-02-15

This is the turtle back book. It is glued and stitched. It should hold up. If this book is going to get alot of use spend the few dollars more and get the turtle back.

Make Way for Ducklings.......2007-02-13

I grew up reading this book and when I became a teacher it was one of the first in my classroom. A classic. A must read for all young readers! Great drawings too!

Make Way for Ducklings.......2007-01-18

This is a great story for children. We bought the book for our daughter to use in the Speech and Hearing Clinic at OSU, and for her work with children at the public library story hour during the summer.

Average customer rating:

It's not a duck, but it's black...
Mega Hit-
Courtesy of Teens Read Too
School Librarians, promote this book.
Once you start the Black Duck, you will have to finish.

Black Duck
Janet Taylor Lisle
Manufacturer: Philomel
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0399239634
Release Date: 2006-05-18

Book Description

When Ruben and Jed find the dead body on the Rhode Island shore, they are certain it has something to do with smuggling liquor. It is the l920's, Prohibition is in full swing, and almost everyone in the shore community is involved. Suddenly, the boys find themselves involved as well: Didn't the dead man have something on him, and didn't they take it? It isn't long before Ruben is actually on the legendary Black Duck itself, caught in a war between two of the most ferocious prohibition gangs.

Filled with resounding mystery and suspense by Newbery Honor winner Janet Taylor Lisle, Black Duck is original, gripping historical fiction.

Customer Reviews:

It's not a duck, but it's black..........2007-09-29

Black Duck
By Janet Taylor Lisle

No, it has nothing to do with ducks that are black. This book is a work of historical fiction that is inspired by Prohibition, when liquor was illegal and there were many "rumrunners" smuggling liquor all the time for profit, and the Black Duck, a legendary rum-running boat that smuggled liquor in the shores of New England. Lisle has taken these events and from it, has made an action-packed story of the famous ship.

In this story, there is a young teenager named David Peterson who wants to become a reporter. It is when he runs into an old man named Ruben Hart, who was involved with the rum-running business. David, who is interested in Prohibition, asks Ruben about the days, and Ruben then begins his tale of money, death, gangs, and of course, the Black Duck.

The author has written this story as an interview, which is what the story is. Either the story is in third person, when David is interviewing Ruben, or in first person, when Ruben is telling his tale of the Black Duck. The book also reminds me a bit of Star Wars, because in it a young boy is drawn into a huge conflict, in which a lot of people are captured, killed, and are chased around by bad guys, which is like this book.

I enjoyed reading this book because in every chapter something that you're not expecting happens, and important information is often blocked off by dialogue between David and Ruben, making you want to know what happens. I would give this book a 4 out of 5, because it is colorful and exciting. Thank you for reading this report on Black Duck by Janet Taylor Lisle, and we'll hope to see you again soon!

Mega Hit-.......2007-05-15

Oh, my Gosh! This is an awesome book. I actually found it by mishap as I was looking for a book to read with my students about the 1920s. It was perfect. The setting of book is the East coast during the heights of rum running. The characters in the book are well developed and in the end there are not really any super surprises but it was a success with my students. They couldn't wait to read everyday. There is plenty of opportunity to discuss critical thinking with the students especially why Jeddy decides to take it upon himself to follow in the footsteps of his father, the local police chief. I think it would be great if someone could make this into a film. For teachers, the beginning goes a bit slow but it picks up and actually become quite dramtic in the end. Great books if you want an alternate for middle school students to F.S. Fitzgerald regarding what it was like in the 20's during Prohibition.

Courtesy of Teens Read Too.......2007-02-16

David's dream is to become a reporter. His father wants him to help run the family landscaping business.

David's dream leads him to a man, Ruban, with possible connections to the Black Duck, the famous rum-running boat during the prohibition in Rhode Island.

David tells Ruban that he's a senior in high school and might get published in the local newspaper. In reality, David is just starting his freshman year. Ruban reluctantly tells David some facts about the town during the time period, starting with the day that he and his best friend, Jeddy, found a dead body on the beach. When they went to alert the authorities, the body disappeared and the boys were warned not to talk about it.

Over the course of several visits, Ruban tells more of the story to David. Ruban's initial curiosity led him down a different path than Jeddy, as he wanted to know more about the body, more about the rum-runners, and even wanted to lend a hand. Soon he and Jeddy were at odds over the rum business. What started as an innocent curiosity led Ruban into danger that neither boy could have imagined.

BLACK DUCK blends worlds with the interruptions between David's questions and Ruban's story. While Jeddy and Ruban had an amazing story, Ruban feels that the whole story isn't his to tell and that Jeddy owns a piece of it. However, with Jeddy dying, Ruban clears his mind of guilt and finishes the tale.

BLACK DUCK is a unique historical fiction novel that will engage readers.

Reviewed by: Jennifer Rummel

School Librarians, promote this book........2006-12-02

More than a mystery, this is an achingly beautiful story. It's one of those books that falls into the AR 4 range yet is powerful enough to satisfy any reader. This would be a fine book club choice. Even though the little twist at the end is predictable, it still works. I'm charmed yet mystified by the alternative spelling of "doctor," but why nitpick? I'll be booktalking this one for years.

Once you start the Black Duck, you will have to finish........2006-10-02

The story begins with David, a freshman in highschool, who is pressured by his parents to get a job in the family gardening business. However, David strives to become a proffesional journalist. Reading an article on the Black Duck, a famous local rumrunning ship, he decides to track down a suspected rumrunner in the Prohibition era, Ruben Hart for an interview.

The story begins slowly, with David convincing Mr. Hart for that interview, but gradually builds suspense. Mr. Hart tells his story in rememberance of his childhood.

Mr. Harts story involves himself in his younger age, and his best friend Jeddy, the local police chief's son. Together, they stumble across a dead body in a beach that was shot in the neck. After calling the local police, they are told to go home. Mysteriously, when the local police, Ruben, Jeddy, and family arrive, the body is gone with no traces, tracks, or explaination. The police and Ruben and Jeddy's family think that Ruben and Jeddy are lying, so they throw responsibilities at them (jobs, chores, etc.).

The story continues as Ruben and Jeddy search for the cause of the missing body, leading to them to a plethora of characters. From gangster muscles, to incredibly unlucky Tom Morrison, to suspicious police, to local smugglers, you do not want to miss Janet Taylor Lisle's Black Duck.

Average customer rating:

Dated (not to be overly PC, but...)
Great Book
I LOVE THIS BOOK
Boring and harsh
Great classic children's story

The Story About Ping
Marjorie Flack
Manufacturer: Puffin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0140502416

Amazon.com

The tale of a little duck alone on the Yangtze River, The Story About Ping is a sweet and funny book with wonderfully rich and colorful illustrations. On a day like any other, Ping sets off from the boat he calls home with his comically large family in search of "pleasant things to eat." On this particular day, he is accidentally left behind when the boat leaves. Undaunted, the little duck heads out onto the Yangtze in search of his family, only to find new friends and adventures--and a bit of peril--around every bend.

The exceptional illustrations bring the lush Yangtze to life, from Ping's family to the trained fishing birds he finds himself among to the faithfully rendered boats and fishermen. Certainly intended to be read aloud, The Story About Ping deserves a place on every young reader's (or listener's) shelf. (Picture book)

Book Description

Since 1933, The Story About Ping has captivated generations of readers, but never before has it been available in a mass-market paperback format. No one can deny the appeal of the book's hero, Ping, the spirited little duck who lives on a boat on the Yangtze River. Ping's misadventures one night while exploring the world around his home form the basis of this timeless classic, which is brought to life by Kurt Wiese's warm and poignant illustrations.

Customer Reviews:

Dated (not to be overly PC, but...).......2007-10-05

Had fond memories of this book as a kid, so bought recently for niece - but didn't end up giving it to her. Re-reading now, the story has aged badly: Negatively stereotypic drawings of Chinese ("Coolie" hat, "slanty" eyes, buck teeth and all - disclosure: I am Asian) and the motivation for little Ping to get with the program is fear of physical abuse (last duck on boat gets whacked w/ a stick.) I know, I know, being overly sensitive; but is this really what I want to convey as acceptable to a potentially impressionable child? Oh well, another childhood memory debunked...

Great Book.......2007-08-24

This is a really cute book. My 6 yo son enjoyed it. He said, "Poor little duck. I wouldn't want to be hit just for being the last one in line!" I have to say, I thought the same thing! :)

I LOVE THIS BOOK.......2007-07-25

My children love this book. So many things can be discussed with this classic: discernment, responsibility, being able to take your punishment when you know you've done wrong, Chinese culture, etc. We used this for homeschooling and from here went into discussions about the Yangtze River (where the book is based), and learned about cormorants (the "strange, dark, fishing birds" in the book). It was very educational. Interestingly, it wasn't my favorite at first, but it grows on you, and has such depth. HIGHLY RECOMMEND******

Boring and harsh.......2007-07-25

The illustrations are plain and unappealing. The flow of the reading lags as well. My son never showed any interest in this book, and neither did I. Also, there are several references to beating ducks with a stick.

Great classic children's story.......2007-07-21

The Story of Ping is a great classic children's story that my children loved. I purchased this copy for my grandchildren to enjoy. Thanks for making it available.

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