Odd Duck by C. Castellucci

Castellucci, Cecil. Odd Duck. Illus. Sara Varon. New York: First Second Books, 2013. Print.Theodora is an eclectic, routine-regimented duck that swims with a teacup on her head to maintain perfect posture, eats uncommon food items like fruit salsa, and reads books that haven’t been signed out of the library in years. Constellations are one of Theodora’s interests and every night she wishes, on the first star she sees, that nothing in her blissful life would ever change. In Theodora’s eyes she is a normal duck who lives a very ordinary life.Theodora’s peaceful life is interrupted when a duck named Chad moves in next door. His lack of manners, carefree attitude and messiness scare, but also intrigue, Theodora. As winter approaches and the other ducks migrate south, Theodora counts down the days until Chad departs. However, Chad foils Theodora’s hopes of a return to normalcy by staying home for the winter, just like her. She continues to ignore Chad and carries on with her daily routine when, one night, Chad invites Theodora to look at the stars through his telescope. Through their love of constellations, Theodora realizes Chad might be the friend she has secretly yearned for.The two ducks’ friendship blossoms until, while walking through town, they hear another duck snicker and remark “Look at that odd duck!” The comment sparks an argument between the friends that leaves them angry and estranged. Is this the end of their friendship, or will both accept themselves and each other as the odd ducks that they are?This is an excellent beginner graphic story to share with primary aged students around themes of friendship, acceptance and self-awareness. The text panels are easy to follow and readers will love the wacky humour and amusing side notes utilized throughout the story. The soft pastels used by Sara Varon in her illustrations really bring the story to life and there are plenty of beautiful hidden details in the images that are sure to visually stimulate the reader. Overall, this is a brilliant book that emphasizes the importance of getting to know people before making judgements and addresses issues of self-image and the effects of stereotypes.Recommended: 3 out of 4 starsReviewer: Jackie HeinrichJackie Heinrich is the teacher-librarian at Wiltse Elementary School in Penticton, BC.  She is currently working towards her Masters of Education Degree in Teacher Librarianship and enjoys helping students become lifelong readers.