The Odd Egg, by Emily Gravett

Gravett, Emily. The Odd Egg. Illustrated by Emily Gravett. Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2009. 32 pages. $15.99, ISBN 978-1-4169-6872-6

AGE LEVEL
0-12 months

GENRE
Picture Book

REVIEW

Duck is the only bird who hasn’t laid an egg, and thus finds one three times his size and proudly sits on it, despite the ridicule of his fellow avians.  On pages of successively increasing length (a format which will add interest for toddlers), we see the hatching of all the eggs except Duck’s.  Unperturbed, he continues to wait and knits, just as unsuspecting as the other birds of the impending dramatic arrival of his egg’s unexpected occupant.  This book, with its few words, endearingly sketched and water-colored characters, and large dose of humor, is perfect for the very youngest of listeners and viewers.  It is well-paced, and despite a conclusion which could be considered a tiny bit abrupt, is recommended.

LIBRARY PROGRAMMING
This book is perfect for a baby or toddler storytime.