Farmer Duck by Martin Waddell is a thoughtful tale of a hard working duck whose animal friends help him take on his lazy owner.
Quick Takes
- Readability – An early read (5 years old) could do it
- Reading time – ~5 minutes
- Adventure Boyz Rating – 8/10
- Perfect for – A classic tale with a happy ending.
What Makes It A Favourite?
Farmer Duck was written in 1992 and as we re-read probably for the fifth time recently, it did start to feel some of its age. So why the favourite? It’s a classic story with a introduction, a problem, and a resolution. There is no doubt who the good guys are (the Duck and his animal friends) and who the villain is (the farm owner).
Dad’s View
The reference to Animal Farm is a little tongue-in-cheek, but it really does read the first part of animal farm. In fact, *spoiler alert* once the Duck and his friends chase off the lazy farm owner, the final page has the Duck standing the middle of the farm with his wing raised, whilst the other animals do the farm work. For the kids, I don’t think we make anything of that. But if you are a fan of Animal Farm, you’ll get what I’m talking about.
We have read this book now for years. It is a simple (or perhaps not so simple) classic.
The Kids’ Take
Both Agents were unified in their like of the hard working duck, and dislike of the lazy farmer, who lays in bed eating chocolates.
Buy or Borrow It?
A repeat borrow. Or it’s a buy for a friend as would very nicely live on any bookshelf.
