Honk! Quack! Boo! (Duck & Goose)

As Halloween arrives, Goose's nerves are getting the best of him, especially after Halloween-loving Thistle (first seen in Duck, Duck, Goose) tells Goose and Duck to "beware the swamp monster." Even a superhero costume doesn't help Goose summon much bravery, especially after the swamp monster shows up during trick-or-treating in the forest. Readers won't share Goose's fear--Hills leaves big visual clues about who's under all that green swamp muck--and before the story is over Goose and Duck deliver a small scare of their own. As in the previous books in this series, Hills's understated writing and serene paint-and-pencil artwork treat these friends' emotions with respect. He has a little fun at their expense as they race, wide-eyed, away from the swamp monster, but readers will understand that being frightened is completely natural and that, sometimes, the sources of those fears aren't "that scary after all." Ages 3-7. (Aug.)

PreS-Gr 1--The dynamic feathered duo return with an introduction to Halloween for young readers. Duck and Goose are discussing the upcoming holiday when Thistle, another feathered friend, happens upon them. Thistle proclaims she loves Halloween and to "beware the swamp monster!" A worried Duck and Goose try not to think about monsters and instead concentrate on bags full of trick-or-treat candy. The next day, the pair get dressed for Halloween as a ghost and a superhero. They join their forest friends for trick-or-treating. An owl, costumed as a daisy, informs Duck and Goose that a swamp monster is looking for them. When they see a slimy green creature running toward them, the frightened duo jump into some bushes. Feeling doomed, Goose summons the courage to confront the swamp monster with his friend. They jump out of the bushes, yelling, "Boo!" Poor Thistle, costumed as a swamp monster, gets a good scare. Hills skillfully uses oil, acrylic, and colored pencil to render his colorful backgrounds and the ever-lovable animal characters. Younger children may sympathize with Goose's confusion over the often contradictory emotions of fright and fun associated with Halloween. Older children will simply enjoy a return of these beloved characters and their antics. VERDICT Duck and Goose will give young listeners a chuckle at this new addition to the collection. Sure to be a storytime favorite.--Mindy Hiatt, Salt Lake County Library Services