THE LONG ISLAND DUCKLINGS

A gentle family of ducklings pass through the seasons without mishap in their cozy domain of Shady Pond. They stare in fear and wonder at the wild ducks that fly overhead, but extend kindness when one of these creatures is wounded. In return, the wild duck leads his new friends to Willow Park when the area around their home is destroyed by fire. The author's distinctive illustrations -- charming pictures of wild fowl and wooded countryside -- far outdo the text which is unexciting if instructive.