Duncan the Dancing Duck

Like Hoff's Bernard on His Own , this tale concerns a youngster who seeks adventure despite parental remonstrations. Irrepressible Duncan first experiences the limelight when his dances amuse his four fellow ducklings. Though his mother tells him to ``stay in line'' as the family paddles around the pond, Duncan can't resist doing jigs for the pigs, the chickens and, finally, the farmer and his wife: ``They watched him dance around the kitchen without breaking a dish. `He's good,' said the farmer.'' Duncan soon appears on TV and wins international acclaim; fame proves exhausting, however, and the farmer and his wife look concerned as they escort the dog-tired duck back to his pond. Hoff's economical and subtly funny text clearly points out the give-and-take in Duncan's family: when the prodigal duck returns, he does ``one more dance--just for his mother,'' to acknowledge his gratitude for his freedom and for the security of home. The illustrations are likewise basic and adroit--Duncan's eyes are closed in a reverie and his beak is held proudly as he twirls, and his multi-specied fans smile and wave with enthusiasm. This picture book is winningly light on its feet, conveying a timeless, cheerful simplicity. Ages 4-8. (Apr.)