Sarah Mackenzie’s Dear Duck, Please Come is a warm and engaging picture book reminiscent of classic animal friendship stories like Frog and Toad. The story begins when Rabbit sends a letter to Duck, asking him to come because Rabbit has lost his tooth. Duck sets off on an adventure through the forest, searching for the missing tooth and finding friends along the way. When they all finally arrive at Rabbit’s cottage, they are met with a surprise ending that will leave young readers giggling.
The story is cheerful, fun, and well-suited to young audiences. Beyond its charming story, the book is impressively crafted, with thoughtful design elements that make it stand out. The illustrations are lively and full of energy, with details that invite readers to linger on each page. The expressive characters and vibrant scenes enhance the sense of adventure and camaraderie.
What makes Dear Duck, Please Come especially clever is its attention to detail in the book’s physical design. The title page, for example, arranges its credits in the shape of a tooth, tying into the storyline in a playful way. Some pages offer layered perspectives that encourage readers to follow the animals’ journey visually. A vertical spread invites readers to turn the book 90 degrees to explore a tall tree, adding an interactive dimension to the experience.
The endpapers are another standout feature. They serve as a treasure hunt, with the front and back endpapers offering different scenes for readers to compare and explore. These small touches add layers of fun and perspective, ensuring that children will want to revisit the book again and again.
Dear Duck, Please Come is a creative and heartwarming story paired with an inventive design, making it an excellent choice for shared reading or independent exploration. It’s a celebration of friendship, curiosity, and the joy of discovery.