This counting book is basically just an illustrated and bound version of the nursery rhyme of the same name. If you know the nursery rhyme, you know the book, although there's a little bit of a twist with the ending here. It's handy for helping kids recognize the amounts that match numbers and in this case, counting backwards. It's slightly more sophisticated with its meter and rhyme than some of the more simplistic numbers/counting board books out there, so it's a nice addition to a classroom library, lesson on numbers, or a toddler's bookshelf. ( )

5 little ducks grew up and had families of their own

This book was enjoyable to read because of the engaging story plot and beautiful illustrations. First, my curiosity was aroused when each of the mother duck's five ducklings did not return after their trip to the fields. When the fifth duckling did not return, the mother was extremely sad and searched for her children season after season. Later, the mother calls to her children and all return with their own families. I liked how this book creatively shows the maturing of ducklings that eventually grow out of their mother's care and make their own families. I also enjoyed looking at the illustrations, especially the few pages that portray the change of seasons from fall to winter and back to spring as the mother duck searches for her children. The main idea of this book seems to be that it is natural and necessary for children to grow up into mature, independent beings. ( )

A concept book that teachers more than just counting, Five Little Ducks introduces young audiences to story, sequence of events, rhythm, and rhyme. Singing the words helps children read and follow along with the written words and pictures, something they will do repeatedly for the sense of accomplishment. Despite mama duck's sad circumstances, the story is illustrated with cheerful ink and watercolor pictures which reassure the reader that all ends well. ( )

Through teaching the importance of coming back to your parents (or other adults)when they call for you and learning obedience, this book also teaches the numbers through five and counting backwards from five.