Publishers Weekly
11/13/2023
Fledgling fowl Frank seeks to prove his worth by embarking on a magical quest in Kurtz’s charming read. While Frank has “fantastic big feet,” he’s developing more slowly than his siblings, leading Frank to feel that he’s the odd one out in his adopted brood. Despite the family’s unconditional love, bullying from other waterfowl drives Frank to prove himself, and he sets off to gather enchanted amulets meant to defeat the fox who hunts at the duck pond. Frank soon finds himself in strange new situations—facing down an egg-eating opossum, escaping two dastardly stoats—all while making friends with different species. Though the novel’s tone can fluctuate, a memorably characterized supporting cast acts as a humorous foil to Frank’s genial naivety and goodheartedness, while familiar animal fantasy tropes depict feats of courage and resourcefulness that lead to discovery and self-acceptance in the vein of The Ugly Duckling. Pencil illustrations by Meyer enrich Frank’s narration. Final art not seen by PW. Ages 8–12. (Feb.)
From the Publisher
"Told in the voice of a seasoned storyteller, this novel has chapters that will work perfectly for sharing aloud with younger children or as a read-alone for more competent readers. . . . Move over Wilbur and Babe, there's a new pig in town." — School Library Journal (starred review)
"It will greatly satisfy fans of Dick King-Smith and E.B. White looking for something similar . . . Engaging fantasy adventure for preteen pig pals." — Kirkus Reviews
"An upbeat and lively story." — Publishers Weekly
"There's humor as well as heart, grit as well as tenderness in the telling of this Antarctic adventure tale." — Booklist
"Loyalty, courage, and optimism are important ideas, and newcomer Kurtz brings us a rollicking story filled with all three." — Horn Book (starred review)
Kirkus Reviews
2024-01-20
From hatch day on, Frank strives to make his mother proud.
Frank believes that ducks are the best of all birds, but…is he a duck? He was a late hatcher from an oversized egg, he has huge feet, and he hates snails. His mother tells him that one day he’ll make her proud, but he can’t help feeling jealous of his duck siblings. When several bullying teenage ducks challenge him to seek out amulets to keep a fox away, he eagerly agrees—finally, a way to prove himself! Frank journeys through the forest, encountering dangers and new pals alike. Eventually, he learns the truth: He is a goose. Will he be able to accept his new identity? Ultimately Frank is rejected by the other ducks except for his mother and siblings, and he chooses to leave behind both his family and his new friends and to set off on his own. Though the writing initially feels repetitive, it strengthens as Frank sets off on his quest. Charming spot art adds whimsy. However, while the narrative centers on animals, many will see it as an adoption story and may find it alienating. Frank’s mother seems far more accepting of his brother and sister—something that the author never grapples with—and Frank’s decision to leave could inadvertently send the message that adoptees may never truly belong with their adoptive families.
A well-meaning tale of identity laced with unsettling implications. (Fiction. 8-11)
