Duck on a Bike

by David Shannon

Book Overview

Caldecott Honor winner David Shannon applies his wonderful off-beat humor to the story of a duck who decides to try riding a bike--and loves it! Another young, funny book perfect for reading aloud.

One day down on the farm, Duck got a wild idea. "I bet I could ride a bike," he thought. He waddled over to where the boy parked his bike, climbed on and began to ride. At first he rode slowly and he wobbled a lot, but it was fun! Duck rode past Cow...

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0439050235
• ISBN13: 9780439050234
• Release Date: April 2002
• Publisher: Blue Sky Press (AZ)
• Length: 40 Pages
• Weight: 0.96 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 8.7" x 11.2"
• Age Range: 4 to 8 years
• Grade Range: Preschool to Grade 3

Customer Reviews

Duck on a Bike

Book was in ok condition. pages inside were torn but taped back. I think my 6 yr old grandson will still like it.

I wish I could ride a bike just like duck!

For me, any book that can be acted, as much as read aloud, is a book that I want to share with my listeners and one that I would definitely recommend to you. This book is both those things. The ingenious text invites you to mimic the farm animals and be the most spirited reader you can be. In the hands of a dedicated reader and/or a devoted parent, this title will prove an exceedingly satisfying read. The illustrations are gorgeous and can be most appreciated in the arms of a child while he/she studies them up close. The clever ending will hopefully tempt your son or daughter to say, "Uh-oh, what's he up to now?" and foster a discussion with him/her about what might happen to Duck next. This is one of the best examples of contemporary literature for young children because it so artfully combines smart writing with outstanding illustrations. Again, like so many of the books I've presented to my audiences at the Children's Museum, this is a book that should be included in your young child's library because it will undoubtedly be read over and over and enjoyed till it's worn.

Great book

My criteria for 5 *s is: - warm illustrations - humourous - well written text - my kids like it - fun for an adult to read over and over again - has a satisfying ending This book has it all. It took a little while to grow on me but I kept finding more and more depth in the pictures and the text. The animals responses to seeing the duck ride the bike are both appropriate to each animal and humourous. e.g. the horse brags that he is faster, the dog thinks it's really cool, the cat is somewhat indifferent and the goat wants to eat the bike. It is also very fun to read to children. You can be a bit silly without trying hard. Unlike some other childrens' books, I don't mind reading this frequently and it is a frequent request from my 3.5 year olds. The ending with the duck staring at the tractor is a fun twist.

Read Aloud Fun

Many children's books put me to sleep while I am reading the bedtime story. This, however, is one of my favorite books to read aloud. I have a great opportunity to practice dramatic voices; I can be a superior acting horse, an arrogant cat, and a worshipful mouse. The illustrations are sensational. I wish I could find more books that are this much fun.

Perfect for storytime at home, school or the library

As a children's librarian, I am always searching for the next perfect book to read for preschool storytime. I have read this book to several groups now and always have had an enraptured audience--both children and adults love it. Duck decides to ride a bike for the fun of it and greets the animal on the farm as he passes by. It might sound trite, but in this book, it is all magical. The full bleed illustrations are bright and colorful while the story is humorous and engaging. Don't miss the last page either. All the kids love it. This has become my favorite picture book this year and I will be disappointed if it doesn't receive a Caldecott nod. Add this one to your child's library or give it to a favorite child as a gift. Then sit down and read it together. Neither of you will be disappointed! A great companion book also out this year is "Do Like a Duck Does" by Judy Hindley.

A Ducky Good Time.....

"One day down on the farm, Duck got a wild idea. "I bet I could ride a bike!" he thought. He waddled over to where the boy parked his bike, climbed on, and began to ride..." So begins David Shannon's creative and silly picture book, Duck On A Bike. In no time Duck's mastered the art of pedaling, and is zooming around the barnyard waving and calling to his friends. The cow thinks it's silly, and the sheep is sure Duck will hurt himself. The dog thinks it's neat, and the pigs think Duck is a big show-off. Mr Goat isn't so interested in riding, but would like to eat the bike, the horse just wants to remind Duck that he's still faster, and the cat is so self-involved, he doesn't even look up as Duck rides by. And that's when it happens...a whole gang of kids come riding onto the farm, park their bikes, and go inside. And in just a matter of seconds, Duck discovers he isn't the only animal riding around and around the barnyard..... Mr Shannon's engaging text begs to be read aloud, and is full of animal sounds and clever asides. But it's his bold, bright, and busy illustrations that really make this book sparkle. Each two page spread is filled with endearing oversized animals, marvelous facial expressions, and hilarious details. Perfect for kids 3-7, Duck On A Bike is a joyous, manic romp that little animal lovers and bike enthusiasts shouldn't miss.