Band Together

“Solo act” Duck—a mallard in a maroon hat and scarf—lives a solitary life by the beach, contentedly crooning beneath the moon and avoiding social interactions, which he finds “overwhelming.” When a musical group arrives in a mint-colored van, requesting Duck’s help with a flat tire, the socially anxious bird ends up enjoying the camaraderie and departs feeling optimistic. As daylight fades into the muted, earthy palette, however, Duck’s euphoria transforms into doubt. The worries persist, causing Duck to decline an invite to participate in the band’s upcoming show, until—in a wordless spread that depicts an abrupt switch from concern to determination—he bounds onstage to join his new friends. The tale’s ending undercuts the joys of Duck’s solitary existence and leaves readers guessing about the strategies he uses to overcome his fears, but there’s much to appreciate about the cozy, domestically focused art and the way Douglass destigmatizes social anxiety. Ages 4–8. [em](Sept.) [/em]