Mr. Duck Means Business by Tammi Sauer, illustrated by Jeff Mack

Mr. Duck does not want visitors. His pond is peppered with signs and he likes his quiet and very scheduled life. Then one day...a pig shows up! Then a cow! Then chicks! Suddenly, Mr. Duck's pond is full of animals and his peaceful life and quiet pond are in complete chaos. When he finally gets rid of all the animals, he realizes his life is missing something...and comes up with a compromise that will give everyone a little of what they want.

The basic plot, of course, is very similar to Bonny Becker's popular Visitor for Bear; both stories feature a curmudgeon who doesn't want company, or to have his quiet life disrupted. However, Mr. Duck is a more riotous romp, with an increasingly hilarious flood of excited animals and sounds. This story is more suited to a storytime and will be perfect for toddlers and preschoolers who are feeling a bit wiggly.

Jeff Mack's illustrations have humorous expressions and lots of texture and color throughout the illustrations especially in the animals' coats. This is the perfect story for younger kids who want a story they can oink and moo along with.

Verdict: Don't let the plot similarities stop you from adding this funny picture book to your collection. Great for storytimes on farm animals and just for fun! Recommended.

ISBN: 9781416985228; Published January 2011 by Simon & Schuster; Borrowed from the library