Make Way: The Story of Robert McCloskey, Nancy Schön, and Some Very Famous Ducklings

Gr 1-4–This is the true-life story of Robert McCloskey of Make Way For Ducklings and Nancy Schön’s subsequent creation of bronze duck sculptures that honors both artists’ path while explaining the fame of their webbed creations. Young McCloskey and Schön’s stories are told alternately to show how each individual interacted with their worlds as children and found their way to their own artistry. As the tales unfold, both are faced with doubts and roadblocks that threaten their beliefs in their own talents. It is near the end of this story that Schön and McCloskey work together; the back matter of the book provides additional information that explains the popularity of the ducklings at the heart of the story. At times the switches between narratives aren’t smooth, but the connections are aided by the illustrations and imagery. As a nod to the original picture book, Keane uses sepia tones contrasted with digitally rendered “crayon” with an emphasis on the expressive faces of every character and animal. The addition of more vibrant colors, such as bright blue, gives this retelling a very modern feel. Use this with the original book, perhaps with older audiences who will follow the dual narrative and the transitions.