Small Readers: Duck, Duck, Porcupine! by Salina Yoon

Big Duck, Little Duck, and Porcupine are friends. Together, they have some adventures. First, they go on a picnic. But a rainstorm spoils it! Can they still have a picnic in the rain? In the second adventure, Big Duck has forgotten something. But what is it? Could all the presents and party preparations be a clue? Finally, the three friends are having a camp out. Big Duck knows just what they need; basically, everything. The others aren't so sure and luckily Little Duck knows the one thing you can't have a camp out without - marshmallows!

Salina Yoon's signature, colorful style and blocky outlines continue to gain popularity. Her simple picture books about Penguin and Bear have been popular choices for storytime and reading aloud and she's now offering a delightful new series of easy chapter books in simple comic style.

Each spread has a thick, black border and the animals speak in speech bubbles. Their faces have minimal changes - the shape of an eye, a lift of a beak, but still convey the action and humor of the story. Some of the text is a little advanced for an easy reader, especially one featuring a more child-like plot, but advanced younger readers will find it a good match and older readers will enjoy the silly humor and vibrant art.

Verdict: Add this one to the slew of early comic readers like Elephant and Piggie, Toon Books, Pig in a Wig, and others. A fun addition and the first in a series.

ISBN: 9781619637238; Published 2016 by Bloomsbury; Borrowed from another library in my consortium