The Birthday Duck

Sam is a city boy who isn't looking forward to his school trip to Nethercott Farm, but he finds a duck and is determined to save him. This warm and magical story is brought to life by Sam Usher and is set on the real-life Nethercott Farm, a member of Farms for City Children.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 48 pages
Publication date: 03 February 2022
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

From the nation's favorite storyteller, Sir Michael Morpurgo, comes a timeless tale of a young boy and a fortunate duck. Sam, a city dweller at heart, finds himself less than enthusiastic about his upcoming school trip to Nethercott Farm. However, as he immerses himself in the bustling days of farm work, encounters various animals, and delves into the wonders of nature, a remarkable transformation takes place. During his adventure, Sam stumbles upon a duck on the brink of becoming someone's dinner. Determined to rescue him, he embarks on a quest to find a way.

This heartwarming and enchanting story is brought to life by the extraordinary illustrative skills of Sam Usher. Set on the actual Nethercott Farm, a member of Farms for City Children, a charity that provides urban children from diverse parts of the country with the opportunity to reside and work together on a genuine farm, experiencing the enchantment of the English countryside.

Sir Michael Morpurgo's storytelling prowess shines through in this captivating tale, which resonates with readers of all ages. The vivid illustrations by Sam Usher add an extra layer of charm, capturing the essence of the story and transporting readers to the picturesque farm.

Nethercott Farm, where the story takes place, is a real-life haven for children who yearn for an authentic rural experience. It offers them the chance to learn about agriculture, care for animals, and connect with nature in a way that is often missing in urban environments. Through their interactions with the farm's inhabitants and the surrounding countryside, the children gain valuable knowledge, develop important skills, and form lasting friendships.

The story of Sam and the duck serves as a reminder of the power of compassion and the importance of standing up for what is right. It teaches children that even in the face of adversity, there is always a way to make a difference and that every life, no matter how small, holds value and deserves to be protected.

In conclusion, Sir Michael Morpurgo's classic tale of Sam and the Lucky Duck is a timeless masterpiece that captivates readers with its warmth, magic, and valuable lessons. Through the illustrations of Sam Usher, the story comes to life, offering a glimpse into the joys of farm life and the power of compassion. Whether read by children or adults, this story continues to inspire and remind us of the importance of cherishing and protecting the natural world and the lives within it.

Weight: 286g
Dimension: 220 x 299 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780008422318