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Odd Duck
Theodora is a perfectly normal duck. She may swim with a teacup balanced on her head and stay north when the rest of the ducks fly south for the winter, but there's nothing so odd about that. Chad, on the other hand, is one strange bird. Theodora quite likes him, but she can't overlook his odd habits. It's a good thing Chad has a normal friend like Theodora to set a good example for him. But who exactly is the odd duck here? Theodora may not like the answer. Sara Varon (Robot Dreams) teams up with Cecil Castellucci (Grandma's Gloves) for a gorgeous, funny, and heartwarming examination of the perils and pleasures of friendship.
96 pages, Hardcover
First published May 14, 2013
15 people are currently reading
2531 people want to read
About the author
Cecil Castellucci
221 books723 followersCecil Castellucci is an author of young adult novels and comic books. Titles include Boy Proof, The Year of the Beasts (illustrated by Nate Powell), First Day on Earth, Rose Sees Red, Beige, The Queen of Cool The Plain Janes and Janes in Love (illustrated by Jim Rugg), Tin Star Stone in the Sky, Odd Duck (illustrated by Sara Varon) and Star Wars: Moving Target: A Princess Leia Adventure.
Her short stories have been published in various places including Black Clock, The Rattling Wall, Tor.com, Strange Horizons, Apex Magazine and can be found in such anthologies such as After, Teeth, Truth & Dare, The Eternal Kiss, Sideshow and Interfictions 2 and the anthology, which she co-edited, Geektastic.
She is the recipient of the California Book Award Gold Medal for her picture book Grandma's Gloves, illustrated by Julia Denos, the Shuster Award for Best Canadian Comic Book Writer for The Plain Janes and the Sunburst Award for Tin Star. The Year of the Beasts was a finalist for the PEN USA literary award and Odd Duck was Eisner nominated.
She splits her time between the heart and the head and lives north and south of everything. Her hands are small. And she likes you very much.
Her short stories have been published in various places including Black Clock, The Rattling Wall, Tor.com, Strange Horizons, Apex Magazine and can be found in such anthologies such as After, Teeth, Truth & Dare, The Eternal Kiss, Sideshow and Interfictions 2 and the anthology, which she co-edited, Geektastic.
She is the recipient of the California Book Award Gold Medal for her picture book Grandma's Gloves, illustrated by Julia Denos, the Shuster Award for Best Canadian Comic Book Writer for The Plain Janes and the Sunburst Award for Tin Star. The Year of the Beasts was a finalist for the PEN USA literary award and Odd Duck was Eisner nominated.
She splits her time between the heart and the head and lives north and south of everything. Her hands are small. And she likes you very much.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 339 reviews
July 4, 2015
Theodora could not relate to a single thing he said. But she knew one thing was certain... She and Chad would NOT be friends.
This book was such a gem. I first found out about it when I was reading the New York Times Book Review.
This is a children's picture book, but it has "chapters." The NYT advises it for children aged 6-10, and I think that's way too old. I'd say 4-8, and 8 might be stretching it.
ANYWAY.
Theodora is set in her ways. Every morning she does the same thing. After waking up in her constellation-canopy bed, she does her daily sit-ups and wingspan exercises. And her quacking exercises. Then she goes swimming, balancing a full teacup on her head.
It seems Theodora has an idea about what a 'good duck' is and what a 'good duck' does. She buys duck food (read: duck pellets) "just like all the other ducks." She buys duck burlap, "just like all the other ducks." At the library, she checks out "A History of Good Ducks," just like all the other ducks. But she also checks out "Duck Mysteries, Duck Space Stories, and Duck Romances!" We get the idea that there might be a little spark of independence in Miss Theodora Duck.
Every single night, Theodora looks up at the stars. And every night she makes the same exact wish.
Theodora wished that nothing in her happy life would ever change.
Well, you know how well THAT usually works out...
Cue Chad, Theodora's rather... unconventional new neighbor. He has junk in his yard that he calls "art." He listens to "terrible screeching that could be music." Some of his feathers are dyed strange colors and stick out at weird angles from his body. He wears goggles all the time.
Like a good, gracious duck, Theodora bakes a cake for Chad to welcome him to the neighborhood, but she is certain they will never be friends. OR WILL THEY!?!?!?!?!
...
This book is a treasure trove.
At first I was put off by the not-so-pretty illustrations, but this book is so rich in detail and message that I was quickly won over.
Every page has some fascinating aspect that you can notice and analyze with a child (or on your own). The illustrator uses arrows and little "side notes" and "side comments" to remark on what is happening. Also, there are lots of hobbies and new words for children to delight in.
It seems that Castellucci has a 'thing' for constellations. This book is big on stars and actually maps and labels constellations in the night sky at points throughout the story. Star-gazing is how Theodora and Chad finally make a connection.
The author also brings up interesting and new foods that might be unfamiliar to children - such as mango salsa, lemon mayonnaise, and soursop salsa.
The vocabulary is also good - just perfect, not too overwhelming. For instance, when Theodora feels put-out in one scene the words "general malaise" appear in parentheses beside her slumped body. This is not only cute, but will introduce children to a few new words. When Chad is drinking a fruity cocktail with an umbrella in it, an arrow points to it and states: "Racy drink, which good ducks certainly would not drink." LOL I was chuckling out loud on that one!
In another scene, when a sad Theodora is biking home from the store, there is an arrow pointing to her chest and at the other end of the arrow is a small, intensely red heart that is dripping blood (not gory). Not only is this visually appealing, but the words "heavy heart" appear in parentheses next to it. Children will delight in this visual sign of Theodora's sadness.
It's these little touches that won me over.
The book also has a great and subtle message.
It is SO hard to find a kids' book with a message that isn't hammered-home and heavy-handed. This book is such a godsend, OMGosh. Cute, funny, with a subtle positive message and tons of cute detail - a winner all around.
There's even little "make your own teabag labels" cut-outs in the back, encouraging kids to "drink tea like Theodora!" The tea-labels have little "T"s on them, and pictures of Theodora doing different Theodora-like things.
That's another thing - the Theodora character was so real. I know ladies like her in real life. Kind of reclusive, set in their ways, determined to be "proper" and "gracious." Who love to drink rosehip tea. Oh my goodness, do I know ladies like that. I don't know many "Chads" - kind of artsy, hippie weirdo guys, but this sounds very realistic, too. These characters may LOOK like ducks, but they are people through and through.
Overall, a wonderful book for kids and parents alike. I highly recommend this.
P.S. Another, even more subtle message in the book is perhaps: Don't say mean things about people. After all, it is an off-the-cuff remark from a third party that ends up shattering Chad and Theodora's newfound friendship. Words can hurt! And sometimes not even intentionally - or in the way they are intended to hurt. There can be unforeseen consequences!
...
Chad was not like other ducks. When he got excited, he talked a mile a minute.
And he never arrived anyplace on time.
But Theodora didn't mind, that was just Chad.
Aw!
This book was such a gem. I first found out about it when I was reading the New York Times Book Review.
This is a children's picture book, but it has "chapters." The NYT advises it for children aged 6-10, and I think that's way too old. I'd say 4-8, and 8 might be stretching it.
ANYWAY.
Theodora is set in her ways. Every morning she does the same thing. After waking up in her constellation-canopy bed, she does her daily sit-ups and wingspan exercises. And her quacking exercises. Then she goes swimming, balancing a full teacup on her head.
It seems Theodora has an idea about what a 'good duck' is and what a 'good duck' does. She buys duck food (read: duck pellets) "just like all the other ducks." She buys duck burlap, "just like all the other ducks." At the library, she checks out "A History of Good Ducks," just like all the other ducks. But she also checks out "Duck Mysteries, Duck Space Stories, and Duck Romances!" We get the idea that there might be a little spark of independence in Miss Theodora Duck.
Every single night, Theodora looks up at the stars. And every night she makes the same exact wish.
Theodora wished that nothing in her happy life would ever change.
Well, you know how well THAT usually works out...
Cue Chad, Theodora's rather... unconventional new neighbor. He has junk in his yard that he calls "art." He listens to "terrible screeching that could be music." Some of his feathers are dyed strange colors and stick out at weird angles from his body. He wears goggles all the time.
Like a good, gracious duck, Theodora bakes a cake for Chad to welcome him to the neighborhood, but she is certain they will never be friends. OR WILL THEY!?!?!?!?!
...
This book is a treasure trove.
At first I was put off by the not-so-pretty illustrations, but this book is so rich in detail and message that I was quickly won over.
Every page has some fascinating aspect that you can notice and analyze with a child (or on your own). The illustrator uses arrows and little "side notes" and "side comments" to remark on what is happening. Also, there are lots of hobbies and new words for children to delight in.
It seems that Castellucci has a 'thing' for constellations. This book is big on stars and actually maps and labels constellations in the night sky at points throughout the story. Star-gazing is how Theodora and Chad finally make a connection.
The author also brings up interesting and new foods that might be unfamiliar to children - such as mango salsa, lemon mayonnaise, and soursop salsa.
The vocabulary is also good - just perfect, not too overwhelming. For instance, when Theodora feels put-out in one scene the words "general malaise" appear in parentheses beside her slumped body. This is not only cute, but will introduce children to a few new words. When Chad is drinking a fruity cocktail with an umbrella in it, an arrow points to it and states: "Racy drink, which good ducks certainly would not drink." LOL I was chuckling out loud on that one!
In another scene, when a sad Theodora is biking home from the store, there is an arrow pointing to her chest and at the other end of the arrow is a small, intensely red heart that is dripping blood (not gory). Not only is this visually appealing, but the words "heavy heart" appear in parentheses next to it. Children will delight in this visual sign of Theodora's sadness.
It's these little touches that won me over.
The book also has a great and subtle message.
It is SO hard to find a kids' book with a message that isn't hammered-home and heavy-handed. This book is such a godsend, OMGosh. Cute, funny, with a subtle positive message and tons of cute detail - a winner all around.
There's even little "make your own teabag labels" cut-outs in the back, encouraging kids to "drink tea like Theodora!" The tea-labels have little "T"s on them, and pictures of Theodora doing different Theodora-like things.
That's another thing - the Theodora character was so real. I know ladies like her in real life. Kind of reclusive, set in their ways, determined to be "proper" and "gracious." Who love to drink rosehip tea. Oh my goodness, do I know ladies like that. I don't know many "Chads" - kind of artsy, hippie weirdo guys, but this sounds very realistic, too. These characters may LOOK like ducks, but they are people through and through.
Overall, a wonderful book for kids and parents alike. I highly recommend this.
P.S. Another, even more subtle message in the book is perhaps: Don't say mean things about people. After all, it is an off-the-cuff remark from a third party that ends up shattering Chad and Theodora's newfound friendship. Words can hurt! And sometimes not even intentionally - or in the way they are intended to hurt. There can be unforeseen consequences!
...
Chad was not like other ducks. When he got excited, he talked a mile a minute.
And he never arrived anyplace on time.
But Theodora didn't mind, that was just Chad.
Aw!
July 15, 2022
Theodora leads a perfectly pleasant, albeit routine, life. She follows the rules for Good Ducks, but also has her own quirks- like mango salsa for with her "everyday duck pellets." Theodora is pleased with her life and wishes on the first star every night that nothing in her happy life would ever change. Then, Theodora gets a new neighbor, Chad, and boy is he an ODD DUCK! Readers will fall in love with this odd couple friendship story. Sara Varon's illustrations are as adorable as the story! – Diana F.
first-second-publications
May 16, 2013This book is a new trim size for us -- 7 x 9 -- and you guys, we love it. It's the perfect size for something that's a hybrid picture book-graphic novel sort of format. Which is what this book is!
Odd Duck is a story about friends, and about accepting who you are, and as such it's perfect for everyone (as Sara Varon's books so often are), even the youngest of readers.
This book is such a wonderful celebration of the things that make us special (like swimming with teacups on our heads or dyeing our feathers or loving to look at the stars). It's beautiful and charming and heartfelt and lovely -- you should read it at once!
Odd Duck is a story about friends, and about accepting who you are, and as such it's perfect for everyone (as Sara Varon's books so often are), even the youngest of readers.
This book is such a wonderful celebration of the things that make us special (like swimming with teacups on our heads or dyeing our feathers or loving to look at the stars). It's beautiful and charming and heartfelt and lovely -- you should read it at once!
February 23, 2013
What I love about Sara Varon's work is how she tells stories of friendship that aren't sappy and that are real in their imperfections. Cecil Castellucci does the same thing in her stories -- the friendships are flawed and yet, wholly real in those flaws.
In Odd Duck, we meet Theodora, who is perfect. She loves her life, including the fact she's the only duck who buys mango salsa and the only duck who checks out certain books in the library (the librarian has to even dust those titles since they've been shelf sitters for so long). She doesn't want anything to change because she is happy with who she is.
But then Chad moves in next door. Chad colors his feathers, lives in a house that's boarded up and messy, and he's anything but coordinated nor quiet. He frustrates Theodora's quiet and peaceful life.
When the two of them finally talk, bonding over their shared love and appreciation for the night sky, they discover they have a lot more in common than appears on the surface. But when they're going for a walk one afternoon and overhear the other ducks whispering about the "Odd Duck," each accuses the other of being the weird one. Suddenly, they're fighting because how dare the accusation!
Of course, they find themselves lonely again and missing one another's company. Maybe it was each other's embracing of their own oddness that made them so companionable after all.
This is charming without being saccharine, and it's wildly funny. It's perfectly appropriate for very young readers, and the art, as one would expect from Varon, is fantastic, vibrant, and equally as funny as the writing itself. The design of this book is super appealing, too: it's a hard cover, and the boards are done in the many portraits of Theodora and Chad.
Bonus points for how easy it is to see Theodora is an introvert and completely happy with her introverted lifestyle and yet, she's still able to develop a worthwhile and valuable friendship with someone so opposite herself.
In Odd Duck, we meet Theodora, who is perfect. She loves her life, including the fact she's the only duck who buys mango salsa and the only duck who checks out certain books in the library (the librarian has to even dust those titles since they've been shelf sitters for so long). She doesn't want anything to change because she is happy with who she is.
But then Chad moves in next door. Chad colors his feathers, lives in a house that's boarded up and messy, and he's anything but coordinated nor quiet. He frustrates Theodora's quiet and peaceful life.
When the two of them finally talk, bonding over their shared love and appreciation for the night sky, they discover they have a lot more in common than appears on the surface. But when they're going for a walk one afternoon and overhear the other ducks whispering about the "Odd Duck," each accuses the other of being the weird one. Suddenly, they're fighting because how dare the accusation!
Of course, they find themselves lonely again and missing one another's company. Maybe it was each other's embracing of their own oddness that made them so companionable after all.
This is charming without being saccharine, and it's wildly funny. It's perfectly appropriate for very young readers, and the art, as one would expect from Varon, is fantastic, vibrant, and equally as funny as the writing itself. The design of this book is super appealing, too: it's a hard cover, and the boards are done in the many portraits of Theodora and Chad.
Bonus points for how easy it is to see Theodora is an introvert and completely happy with her introverted lifestyle and yet, she's still able to develop a worthwhile and valuable friendship with someone so opposite herself.
January 12, 2013
Adorable and makes me want to knit though there are no knitting scenes in the book. They have really cute mittens, socks, etc. review forthcoming.
April 18, 2013
Theodora is a perfectly normal duck, thank you very much. She swims with a teacup balanced on head to help maintain perfect posture and stays north when the rest of the ducks fly south for the winter (why would she want to leave her home??) and there’s nothing strange about that. Chad, her newest neighbor, on the other hand is a bit odd. I mean he dyes his feathers weird colors and has all kinds of weird art projects around. But...they do like some of the same things. But can Theodora ever be friends with such an odd duck as Chad?
While this is an age old story, being yourself and making friends, Sara Varon and Cecil Castellucci bring their own unique twists to the story. By creating ducks as characters that are both clearly a bit different, Cecil lets the reader see that differences can seem perfectly normal to the other person. Even better though, is that Cecil shows that being the different...isn't all that bad. In some ways its a good thing, because it means you get to experience things differently than everyone else. And you might just have a friend to acompany you along the way.
Sara Varon’s normal color palette of soft pastels works well for this book, making it feel like a book from 30+ years ago. Especially with the end papers of the book, they are just absolutely beautiful and I feel like I could spend hours just looking at them. I mean they don't have a lot of detail, repeating patterns of duck characters, but the memories associated with that type of design and color are fantastic. Sara also had lots of nice details hidden in the images, such as Theodora’s carpet in the bedroom that looks like moving water with a dolphin and seahorse swimming around. All in all it's just a beautifully illustrated book.
In many ways this book reminds me of one of my favorite all time picture books The Big Orange Splot. Together these two create a vibrant and colorful story that readers young and old will greatly enjoy. I give the book 4 out of 5 stars.
ARC provided by Gina at FirstSecond
While this is an age old story, being yourself and making friends, Sara Varon and Cecil Castellucci bring their own unique twists to the story. By creating ducks as characters that are both clearly a bit different, Cecil lets the reader see that differences can seem perfectly normal to the other person. Even better though, is that Cecil shows that being the different...isn't all that bad. In some ways its a good thing, because it means you get to experience things differently than everyone else. And you might just have a friend to acompany you along the way.
Sara Varon’s normal color palette of soft pastels works well for this book, making it feel like a book from 30+ years ago. Especially with the end papers of the book, they are just absolutely beautiful and I feel like I could spend hours just looking at them. I mean they don't have a lot of detail, repeating patterns of duck characters, but the memories associated with that type of design and color are fantastic. Sara also had lots of nice details hidden in the images, such as Theodora’s carpet in the bedroom that looks like moving water with a dolphin and seahorse swimming around. All in all it's just a beautifully illustrated book.
In many ways this book reminds me of one of my favorite all time picture books The Big Orange Splot. Together these two create a vibrant and colorful story that readers young and old will greatly enjoy. I give the book 4 out of 5 stars.
ARC provided by Gina at FirstSecond
February 27, 2013
"'It's not so bad to be odd,' Theodora thought, 'not when you have an odd friend.'"
Theodora the duck lives her life in quiet, solitary contentment. She chooses not to fly south for the winter, instead preferring to live in her cottage, do her morning duck exercises, and run her errands. When a new duck moves into the house next door, Theodora meets the strangest duck she's ever known: Chad, with his poorly oiled, ruffled feathers, strange tastes, and mile-a-minute mouth. They have nothing in common, and Theodora is convinced they will never be friends. But, over the course of the winter, as they both remain north, they come to find they have much in common, and they become best friends. Eventually, they come face-to-face with the notion that one of them may possibly be "odd," but they're not entirely sure which one.
Two of my favorite authors for YA team up for this one - Castellucci has authored a number of outstanding graphic novels/illustrated books, including The Plain Janes, and The Year of the Beasts. Varon will be best know to others for Robot Dreams and Bake Sale. The narration and dialogue, along with gorgeously-drawn and colored pictures, make this a book that everyone should read. The lessons of friendship, and having the courage to be yourself, will resonate with readers young and old. Keep an eye out for well-placed nods to other books by the authors (the Tin Robot Kit in the store made me laugh out loud), and sight gags such as the "Egg Replacer" Theodora uses to bake her cake.
Theodora the duck lives her life in quiet, solitary contentment. She chooses not to fly south for the winter, instead preferring to live in her cottage, do her morning duck exercises, and run her errands. When a new duck moves into the house next door, Theodora meets the strangest duck she's ever known: Chad, with his poorly oiled, ruffled feathers, strange tastes, and mile-a-minute mouth. They have nothing in common, and Theodora is convinced they will never be friends. But, over the course of the winter, as they both remain north, they come to find they have much in common, and they become best friends. Eventually, they come face-to-face with the notion that one of them may possibly be "odd," but they're not entirely sure which one.
Two of my favorite authors for YA team up for this one - Castellucci has authored a number of outstanding graphic novels/illustrated books, including The Plain Janes, and The Year of the Beasts. Varon will be best know to others for Robot Dreams and Bake Sale. The narration and dialogue, along with gorgeously-drawn and colored pictures, make this a book that everyone should read. The lessons of friendship, and having the courage to be yourself, will resonate with readers young and old. Keep an eye out for well-placed nods to other books by the authors (the Tin Robot Kit in the store made me laugh out loud), and sight gags such as the "Egg Replacer" Theodora uses to bake her cake.
February 3, 2013
Publication date: May 14, 2013
Publisher: First Second
ISBN: 9781596435575
Genre: Graphic novel/ animal stories
Themes: friendship, character development, self awareness, acceptance
Theodora leads the perfectly normal life of a perfectly normal duck. Or so she thinks. Then one day, Chad, a very odd duck, moves into the empty house next door bringing with him his odd art, music, and manners. When all the other ducks fly south for the winter Theodora is surprised to find Chad has remained behind and a friendship begins to blossom. When the ducks return home and make an unkind comment about her friend, Theodora is shocked to discover she may be the one who is considered odd.
Odd Duck is a wonderfully charming story with interesting tidbits sprinkled in to add layer and depth to the story. The ducks are both stargazers and the colorful illustrations include the constellations in the sky which will ignite questions from young readers. This one goes on my To be Purchased list. Prediction: kid favorite.
Publisher: First Second
ISBN: 9781596435575
Genre: Graphic novel/ animal stories
Themes: friendship, character development, self awareness, acceptance
Theodora leads the perfectly normal life of a perfectly normal duck. Or so she thinks. Then one day, Chad, a very odd duck, moves into the empty house next door bringing with him his odd art, music, and manners. When all the other ducks fly south for the winter Theodora is surprised to find Chad has remained behind and a friendship begins to blossom. When the ducks return home and make an unkind comment about her friend, Theodora is shocked to discover she may be the one who is considered odd.
Odd Duck is a wonderfully charming story with interesting tidbits sprinkled in to add layer and depth to the story. The ducks are both stargazers and the colorful illustrations include the constellations in the sky which will ignite questions from young readers. This one goes on my To be Purchased list. Prediction: kid favorite.
July 4, 2013
The world is filled with plenty of odd ducks, and Theodora goes blithely through life with no idea that others might see her as anything other than normal. So what if she swims with a teacup on her head or doesn't fly south for the winter? She's perfectly normal, after all. When she meets Chad, she avoids him at first since he is so strange, but eventually they become friends and share many good times. But when a chance overheard remark about someone's oddness leads to an argument between the two ducks, both of them express just how odd each thinks the other one is. In the end, Theodora and Chad decide that being odd is perfectly fine as long as you have a friend who is also a bit odd. I enjoyed the story, the ducks, and the cartoonish illustrations. This book contains an excellent message for youngsters about being true to oneself, but it delivers that message in an amusing way.
June 10, 2014
I adored this book! It engaged me from the very beginning. Two ducks: very different! One has a set routine, the other lives life a bit differently. It's a story of friendship and acceptance, and it's completely fun. The format is picture book/graphic novel, and that also adds to its appeal.
May 29, 2023
cutest book ive ever read would read it again (i already have)
April 26, 2014
4.5 stars - great!
I loved this book; it was great! :) Theodora is delightful: very fun. Chad, her new neighbor, is also fun, but in very different ways from the quirky Theodora. He has is own quirks, and Theodora is not impressed.
But that changes when the rest of the town's ducks fly south for the winter. Theodora stays behind as is her custom...but so does Chad! Over the course of the winter their friendship develops and they each learn to appreciate the other's quirks.
When the rest of the town returns, though, their idyll is shattered. The townsfolk say, "Look at that odd duck!" This comment, made by townies that Theodora had previously thought kindly of, hurt both Theodora and Chad, and each thought the other had been the brunt of the comment.
Sadly, their friendship fizzled after an argument over who was the odd duck. :( Happily, though, once alone both got to thinking that life just wasn't the same without the other. Both also realized that their own quirks really were rather odd. But rather than be ashamed and hide away, each embraced their quirks and they decided they liked each other just fine the way they were, quirks and all. :)
"It's not so bad to be odd," Theodora thought ...
... not when you have an odd Friend."
Again, I found this story to be great. :) The illustrations were charming and I loved the way the text was displayed and that it didn't just explain the goings-on, but also told readers what we were looking at. :) Theodora and Chad were both fabulous characters, and I think this book would be excellent for kids: it shows them that being odd (and everyone is odd in someone else's eyes) is not a bad thing at all. :)
I loved this book; it was great! :) Theodora is delightful: very fun. Chad, her new neighbor, is also fun, but in very different ways from the quirky Theodora. He has is own quirks, and Theodora is not impressed.
But that changes when the rest of the town's ducks fly south for the winter. Theodora stays behind as is her custom...but so does Chad! Over the course of the winter their friendship develops and they each learn to appreciate the other's quirks.
When the rest of the town returns, though, their idyll is shattered. The townsfolk say, "Look at that odd duck!" This comment, made by townies that Theodora had previously thought kindly of, hurt both Theodora and Chad, and each thought the other had been the brunt of the comment.
Sadly, their friendship fizzled after an argument over who was the odd duck. :( Happily, though, once alone both got to thinking that life just wasn't the same without the other. Both also realized that their own quirks really were rather odd. But rather than be ashamed and hide away, each embraced their quirks and they decided they liked each other just fine the way they were, quirks and all. :)
"It's not so bad to be odd," Theodora thought ...
... not when you have an odd Friend."
Again, I found this story to be great. :) The illustrations were charming and I loved the way the text was displayed and that it didn't just explain the goings-on, but also told readers what we were looking at. :) Theodora and Chad were both fabulous characters, and I think this book would be excellent for kids: it shows them that being odd (and everyone is odd in someone else's eyes) is not a bad thing at all. :)
June 12, 2013
Theodora swims balancing a teacup on her head, enjoys mango salsa with her duck pellets, and exercises her wings every morning (yet never flies). Claude dyes his feathers strange colors, constructs crazy art projects in his yard, and spends his nights gazing at the stars. So which duck is the odd one?
Cecil Castellucci has written a touching and sophisticated graphic story about two friends who learn to appreciate the other's nonconformity. Readers see the story through Theodora's POV, from the day that Claude moves into the empty house next door--disrupting her routine--to their gradual realization that "even though they were very different, they felt the same way about most things."
Then one day as the pair waddle past a group of snickering ducks, they overhear one remark, "Look at that odd duck." Theodora and Claude each assume the comment was meant for the other. Their fallout drives them back to their respective houses and appears to end the friendship. But Theodora finds life isn't the same without her odd friend and ultimately comes to a realization about herself.
Books about friendship are big with six to ten year olds, the group this book is clearly aimed at. Young readers will find much to enjoy in the six short chapters. And the illustrations are a joy, with hundreds of details for readers to ponder in the duck universe that Varon creates. In fact, pairing Castellucci, best known for her YA graphic novels, with Varon (Robot Dreams) was an inspired choice. Both are rather odd ducks themselves (in the best possible way) and their collaboration is proof that birds of a feather flock together!
Cecil Castellucci has written a touching and sophisticated graphic story about two friends who learn to appreciate the other's nonconformity. Readers see the story through Theodora's POV, from the day that Claude moves into the empty house next door--disrupting her routine--to their gradual realization that "even though they were very different, they felt the same way about most things."
Then one day as the pair waddle past a group of snickering ducks, they overhear one remark, "Look at that odd duck." Theodora and Claude each assume the comment was meant for the other. Their fallout drives them back to their respective houses and appears to end the friendship. But Theodora finds life isn't the same without her odd friend and ultimately comes to a realization about herself.
Books about friendship are big with six to ten year olds, the group this book is clearly aimed at. Young readers will find much to enjoy in the six short chapters. And the illustrations are a joy, with hundreds of details for readers to ponder in the duck universe that Varon creates. In fact, pairing Castellucci, best known for her YA graphic novels, with Varon (Robot Dreams) was an inspired choice. Both are rather odd ducks themselves (in the best possible way) and their collaboration is proof that birds of a feather flock together!
March 9, 2013
"Theodora is a perfectly normal duck. She may swim with a teacup balanced on her head and stay north when the rest of the ducks fly south for the winter, but there's nothing so odd about that. Chad, on the other hand, is one strange bird. Theodora quite likes him, but she can't overlook his odd habits. It's a good thing Chad has a normal friend like Theodora to set a good example for him. But who exactly is the odd duck here? Theodora may not like the answer. Sara Varon (Robot Dreams) teams up with Cecil Castellucci (Grandma's Gloves) for a gorgeous, funny, and heartwarming examination of the perils and pleasures of friendship." (www.goodreads.com)
This book is cute. Theodora is a odd duck but doesn't know it until a new duck Chad moves in next door. At first she does not like him and stays away. When winter comes and all the other ducks have flown south Chad reaches out to Theodora. He offers to let her see the stars through his telescope, being a good duck she does and they realize they have a lot in common. They are inseperable from that day on. Then one day walking through town someone calls out Odd Duck. This causes a fight between the two friends and they stop talking to each other. Eventually they miss each other and apologize. They also realize everything that makes them a odd duck also makes them the special duck they are.
The illustrations in the book are well done. It is easy to read and follow. Lucy and Porkchop ould not get enough of this book.
This book is cute. Theodora is a odd duck but doesn't know it until a new duck Chad moves in next door. At first she does not like him and stays away. When winter comes and all the other ducks have flown south Chad reaches out to Theodora. He offers to let her see the stars through his telescope, being a good duck she does and they realize they have a lot in common. They are inseperable from that day on. Then one day walking through town someone calls out Odd Duck. This causes a fight between the two friends and they stop talking to each other. Eventually they miss each other and apologize. They also realize everything that makes them a odd duck also makes them the special duck they are.
The illustrations in the book are well done. It is easy to read and follow. Lucy and Porkchop ould not get enough of this book.
June 9, 2013
Theodora, a prim and odd duck, enjoys her quiet and routine life. When Chad moves in next door, he brings his strange ways, including unusual art pieces, dyed feathers, and uncoordinated swimming. Theodora avoids Chad at first but then they discover that they both love stars, enjoy adding some flavor to their duck diet, and find A History of Good Ducks boring. But when each accuses the other of being an odd duck, their friendship crumbles. Eventually the two realize that, despite their odd preferences, they enjoy being friends with someone who sees the world a bit differently than the average duck.
I thoroughly enjoyed this graphic novel! It definitely has the tone of a tame romantic comedy but I think kids will still enjoy it. Note: Chapter 2 includes an illustration with a martini with a bubble stating "Racy drink, which good ducks certainly would not drink." A small detail that some school or public librarians might want to know about before making recommendations.
I thoroughly enjoyed this graphic novel! It definitely has the tone of a tame romantic comedy but I think kids will still enjoy it. Note: Chapter 2 includes an illustration with a martini with a bubble stating "Racy drink, which good ducks certainly would not drink." A small detail that some school or public librarians might want to know about before making recommendations.
September 23, 2013
I was a little bit surprised at how much I enjoyed this book. I thought the illustrations were darling with lots of humorous details. The characters were oddly endearing with their various quirks. I found the story a refreshing take on the often told friendship tale. Theodora is really uncertain about Chad when he first moves in next door, he does everything so strangely, and yet when she discovers that he too loves looking at the stars, she realizes that she's found a kindred spirit. When they overhear someone referring to an 'odd duck' they each assume it was a reference to the other and they have a fight, because neither considers his/herself odd. But as Theodora thinks about it she realizes that some of her habits are a bit unusual and that she misses Chad. I liked the way the characters took time to think about the problem before deciding that it was okay to be odd and that they liked being friends. Not only a cute story but a great theme involving accepting differences and solving problems. I think children will find the story amusing and enjoyable. Highly recommended.
February 22, 2014
Odd Duck by Cecil Castellucci and Sara Varon – Graphic Novel – 2nd grade and up – I couldn’t believe what a funny word “odd” is as I had a conversation with my son. He insisted that it should be called “old” duck not Odd Duck because it just didn’t make sense to him. Guess I haven’t used that adjective as much as I thought I did with him around.
I loved the friendship that developed in this book, another one of those “don’t judge until you know…” kind of books. Perfect conflict/resolution story. The different things that both ducks do to be special is quite interesting as well. I figure poise is a good thing to work on, swimming with a teacup on your head? Why not. I just love Sara Varon’s illustrations, made me reflect back on her Robot Dreams book too.
I loved the friendship that developed in this book, another one of those “don’t judge until you know…” kind of books. Perfect conflict/resolution story. The different things that both ducks do to be special is quite interesting as well. I figure poise is a good thing to work on, swimming with a teacup on your head? Why not. I just love Sara Varon’s illustrations, made me reflect back on her Robot Dreams book too.
January 15, 2015
A fun story that teaches us to embrace being differences. Theodora and Chad each have their own quirks, but learn that adds to the fun of friendship. Cute drawings and fun dialogue will appeal to readers of all ages.
February 28, 2013
A wonderfully fun story for anyone who has ever felt like an odd duck ... and haven't we all?
May 28, 2013
so adorable I might puke up puffy hearts!
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December 2, 2014A sweet book with art I love. (I'm a Sara Varon fan.)
July 3, 2017
Sometimes that 'odd duck' could turn out to be your best friend - if you only give them a chance. Great book that teaches children to not label others too quickly.
July 19, 2021
So delightful! My daughter has now read this multiple times to me because the story is sweet and captivating.
July 6, 2022
Checked this one out as I'm a fan of Sara Varon. It's quirky and utterly adorable. 💗
June 5, 2017
Very amusing tale of two odd birds who eventually become friends.
Wonderful art by Sara Varon.
Wonderful art by Sara Varon.
April 17, 2014
1.) How will this graphic novel enhance your collection (positives)?
The reviewer for School Library Journal says this novel is, "A story about first impressions, tolerance, and friendship...and it may be a welcome balm for those who feel a bit different" and I agree. This graphic novel is just a very sweet, uplifting read. It has a bit of a twist at the end and an amazing lesson about identity, self-esteem, kindness, and fitting in. I loved the play on the words "odd duck" which our society uses to describe those who march to the beat of their own drum, but this book shows readers how those people may not be as different or odd as we imagine them to be and how we may not be as "normal" or "average" as we imagine ourselves to be. Moreover, those odd ducks just might make very good friends. The final pages of this book read, "It's not so bad to be odd...not when you have an odd friend."
2.) Describe a possible application and audience for each book, for example: curricular, types of readers,grade levels, etc.
I think this book would make a great addition to a unit about friendship or kindness. It could fit into a unit about bullying very well too and would make a great discussion starter for younger students, grades 2-4. It would appeal to all types of readers because of its universal message about feeling "different". I could see this book being used to introduce a unit about bullying awareness or being used at the beginning of the year as an ice breaker to get students to talk to one another about what makes each one of them unique and different.
3.) (2013, May 1). School Library Journal.
http://www.booksinprint.com.leo.lib.u...
The reviewer for School Library Journal says this novel is, "A story about first impressions, tolerance, and friendship...and it may be a welcome balm for those who feel a bit different" and I agree. This graphic novel is just a very sweet, uplifting read. It has a bit of a twist at the end and an amazing lesson about identity, self-esteem, kindness, and fitting in. I loved the play on the words "odd duck" which our society uses to describe those who march to the beat of their own drum, but this book shows readers how those people may not be as different or odd as we imagine them to be and how we may not be as "normal" or "average" as we imagine ourselves to be. Moreover, those odd ducks just might make very good friends. The final pages of this book read, "It's not so bad to be odd...not when you have an odd friend."
2.) Describe a possible application and audience for each book, for example: curricular, types of readers,grade levels, etc.
I think this book would make a great addition to a unit about friendship or kindness. It could fit into a unit about bullying very well too and would make a great discussion starter for younger students, grades 2-4. It would appeal to all types of readers because of its universal message about feeling "different". I could see this book being used to introduce a unit about bullying awareness or being used at the beginning of the year as an ice breaker to get students to talk to one another about what makes each one of them unique and different.
3.) (2013, May 1). School Library Journal.
http://www.booksinprint.com.leo.lib.u...
March 27, 2013
Theodora was a very busy duck. She exercised every day, she swam laps in the pond (with a teacup on her head), she ran her errands every afternoon, she rode her bike rather than flying, and in the evening she quietly watched the stars. She had the perfect life of routine and quiet until a strange duck moved in next door. Chad was not like Theodora. He was an artist who made sculptures out of found objects, he colored his feathers, and he liked dancing and swimming in a wild fashion. When fall came and the other ducks flew south, Theodora and Chad were the only two left. Over the winter, they became fast friends. But when someone implied that one of them as an “odd duck” the question became which of them they were talking about.
Castellucci beautifully tells the story of a duck who is obviously unique and then another duck who is unique as well. Readers will at first think that it is about accepting others who are different from you, but the author has something deeper in mind here. It’s about also accepting that you yourself are the odd duck. As we all know we are!
Varon’s illustrations have wonderful small touches. Make sure you check out the titles on her books, since they are good for an additional chuckle. Her characters are winning and cheery, both so very comfortable in their own skin.
Fun, buoyant and with plenty of depth, this children’s graphic novel should fly off the shelves just like a normal duck. Appropriate for ages 6-9.
Castellucci beautifully tells the story of a duck who is obviously unique and then another duck who is unique as well. Readers will at first think that it is about accepting others who are different from you, but the author has something deeper in mind here. It’s about also accepting that you yourself are the odd duck. As we all know we are!
Varon’s illustrations have wonderful small touches. Make sure you check out the titles on her books, since they are good for an additional chuckle. Her characters are winning and cheery, both so very comfortable in their own skin.
Fun, buoyant and with plenty of depth, this children’s graphic novel should fly off the shelves just like a normal duck. Appropriate for ages 6-9.
August 2, 2013
Theadora is a very regimented duck. She enjoys her life and the structure she keeps in it. Then one day a duck of a different color moves in next door. He's a bit different. He has lots of strange sculpturs in his yard. He plays terrible music and doesn't fix a broken window! What kind of duck is this?
Theadora makes him a cake and tries to be friendly. When she arrives, this duck doesn't say a word; just grabs her and drags her to a picnic table where he finally introduces himself as Chad. Theadora finds that this duck has no manners at all! He only talks about himself and scratches his head with a fork!
Theadora decides that the two of them can never be friends. Her only hope for peace is when Chad flys south for the winter. Alas. He decides to stay... Now what?
While gazing at the stars one night, Chad invites her to use his telescope and the two quickly become fast friends. While they are in town one day, both overhear another duck say "what an odd duck." Each duck assumes they must be referring to the other duck and a disagreement ensues.
Will the two friends reunite?
Theadora makes him a cake and tries to be friendly. When she arrives, this duck doesn't say a word; just grabs her and drags her to a picnic table where he finally introduces himself as Chad. Theadora finds that this duck has no manners at all! He only talks about himself and scratches his head with a fork!
Theadora decides that the two of them can never be friends. Her only hope for peace is when Chad flys south for the winter. Alas. He decides to stay... Now what?
While gazing at the stars one night, Chad invites her to use his telescope and the two quickly become fast friends. While they are in town one day, both overhear another duck say "what an odd duck." Each duck assumes they must be referring to the other duck and a disagreement ensues.
Will the two friends reunite?
February 4, 2014
Theodora is happy with her life. She has her routines -- morning swimming exercises (with a teacup on her head), grocery shopping (though she likes mango salsa), and visits to the library (though she reads different books.) Then Chad moves in next door. He's very odd -- dyed feathers, building "art" in his yard. When the other birds fly south for the winter, it is just Theodora and Chad. They eventually become friends, sharing a love of stargazing. When the other ducks return in the spring and see them together, they overhear them talking about "that odd duck." Each assumes the other ducks are talking about the other one, not themself. When they discover they both think the other is odd, they have a falling out. After some reflection, both realize that they are a bit odd . . . and that's okay. A funny story of friendship and acceptance, of being comfortable in your own skin (or feathers.)
August 10, 2016
Odd Duck / Cecil Castellucci / 2013
Genre: fiction
Format: easy reader
Plot summary: Despite the fact that she swims with a teacup balanced on her head and stays north when all of the ducks fly south for the winter, Theodora believes herself to be a normal duck and makes a friend in Chad, who may be as eccentric as she is.
Considerations: none
Review citation: School Library Journal, vol 59
"Warm and with solid insight into the nature of quirk, this title will amuse most readers, and it may be a welcome balm for those who feel a bit different."
Section source: School Library journal article on easy readers
Recommended age: 6-9
Genre: fiction
Format: easy reader
Plot summary: Despite the fact that she swims with a teacup balanced on her head and stays north when all of the ducks fly south for the winter, Theodora believes herself to be a normal duck and makes a friend in Chad, who may be as eccentric as she is.
Considerations: none
Review citation: School Library Journal, vol 59
"Warm and with solid insight into the nature of quirk, this title will amuse most readers, and it may be a welcome balm for those who feel a bit different."
Section source: School Library journal article on easy readers
Recommended age: 6-9
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