Review by Booklist Review
In this third installment, Detective Duck and the pond animals are busy preparing for the Spring Games. As the competitions unfold, the animals encounter the dangers of plastic litter, and Sal the salamander struggles with jealousy over Willow's new friendship. Though the mystery element is lighter this time around, a missing mallard provides an opportunity for teamwork as the animals band together to solve the problem. With short chapters and plentiful illustrations, this entry is accessible to emerging chapter-book readers. The bright artwork provides visual cues that support comprehension while helping readers follow the action. The story juggles three simultaneous plotlines--environmental awareness, friendship struggles, and the missing duck--which may feel overly complex for some. However, older children will likely enjoy the silliness. The large cast means that some familiarity with earlier books could be helpful, though not strictly necessary. A recommended choice for libraries looking to expand their early chapter-book collections, especially where animal adventures and light mysteries are in demand.
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by School Library Journal Review
Gr 1--3--In this third mystery featuring Willow Feathers McBeaver, aka Detective Duck, the Pond Squad are thrilled to get invited to The Emerald Pond Games where they will play games and get the chance to hang out with new friends, including the cool mallard named Maxwell. But when Maxwell goes missing and strange plastic objects float to the surface of the pond, Willow and her friends start to suspect something is awry. Thankfully, Detective Duck is ready to solve the crime and save their habitat in the process. With an endearing cast of animal characters, humor, mystery, and an environmental angle, this series is a delight for kids and their grown-ups. Short chapters and beautiful, full color illustrations are featured throughout, elevating the story and bringing the character to hilarious and charming life. VERDICT Recommended for all collections.
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Review by Kirkus Book Review
Willow the duckling sleuth and the rest of the Dogwood Pond crew head to nearby Emerald Pond for the Spring Games. Hosted by Maxwell the mallard, the events include Bat Ball and the Slither Slide, and everyone gets into the swing of things--except Willow's best friend, Sal the salamander. Jealous Sal sulks, stews, and snarks as Willow swoons over the charismatic Maxwell. As usual, Snout the predatory weasel lurks until Maxwell tackles him, saving a duckling from his jaws and sending him packing--an act of heroism that makes Sal feel small. Then brave Maxwell briefly disappears, and Sal must overcome his jealousy and help Willow to find him. As in actor Winkler and co-author Oliver's previous installments, environmental stewardship is a key part of the plot: The characters comment on the plastic refuse humans dump into the pond, and the litter is ultimately linked to Maxwell's disappearance. Caldecott Medalist Santat's plentiful, colorful, lively vignettes and larger illustrations help lighten the atmosphere, even when the air is charged with bad feelings. Events move briskly, while characterization is effectively broadcast through the action. Compared to the earlier titles in the series, this tale leans less heavily on humor and whodunit elements as the stakes become more serious; nevertheless, Willow's fans will be rapt. Danger and emotional tension sub in for mystery in the latest in this eco-friendly series. (authors' note)(Chapter book. 6-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
