ReviewsWhere an exclamation point conveyed birdy delight in Willems's The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog! this title's interrobang implies shock at the Duckling's good fortune. As the sequence opens, the yellow Duckling requests a cookie, receives one immediately, and graciously thanks the unseen provider with a "flappy flip flap!" The Pigeon, whom the Duckling cajoled into sharing a hot dog in the earlier book, soon arrives to express astonishment. Multipanel spreads and emphatic voice balloons reveal his outrage as The Pigeon throws a colossal tantrum ("I ask for things all the time!/ I ask to drive the bus!... I've asked for a walrus!... But do I get what I ask for? Noooooo!"). In an unexpected turn, the Duckling gives the Pigeon the entire cookie, shocking the bird (and probably readers, too). Willems packs his punchy dialogue, punctuation, and cartoon visuals with meaning. The Duckling's dilated blue pupils and wiggling tail suggest studied cuteness, while the Pigeon's pointy wings and scornful eyelids show comical aggravation. The Duckling's outward generosity, which hides ulterior motives, ends this exuberant Pigeon installment on a snarky note worthy of Tweety Bird.-- PW
Grade FromPreschool
Dewey Decimal813.6
Grade ToKindergarten
SynopsisMo Willems, #1 New York Times best-selling creator and three-time Caldecott Honoree, presents a sweet Pigeon adventure. The Duckling asks for a cookie--and gets one! It isn't fair! The Pigeon NEVER gets what he asks for. Do YOU think the Pigeon should get a cookie, too? Say "no!" to all the Pigeon books! Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! Don't Let the Pigeon Stay Up Late! The Pigeon Wants a Puppy! The Duckling Gets a Cookie!? The Pigeon HAS to Go to School! The Pigeon Will Ride the Rollercoaster! Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Sleigh! For Mo' amazing books, check out these other great series: Knuffle Bunny Elephant & Piggie Unlimited Squirrels