PreS?A straightforward version of the familiar counting rhyme. Paparone"s artwork, done in rich, saturated acrylics and colored pencil, effectively follows the rhyming pattern of the text. Mother Duck is shown doing a variety of household chores as well as engaging in a few hobbies. At the end of the day, she lures her youngsters home with milk and apple pie. Unfortunately, the ducks lack character. The ducklings are identical with no distinct personality traits. Similarly, Mother Duck has a vacant look and seems unconcerned about her offsprings" wanderings. Despite this flaw, Five Little Ducks is a pleasant, gentle book reminiscent of days gone by. For a more robust version, try the one from Raffi"s \"Songs to Read\" series (Crown, 1988), illustrated by Jose Aruego and Ariane Dewey.?Dawn Ibey, Vancouver Public Library, Canada