Me First! - Hardcover

Michaël Escoffier: Michael Escoffier was born in France in 1970. Raised by a family of triceratops, he discovered his passion for writing and telling stories at a young age. He lives in Lyon with his wife and two children.

Kris Di Giacomo: Born in Brazil of American parents, Kris Di Giacomo is a popular children's book illustrator who has lived in France for a long time. After living in the US for a while she moved to France, where teaching English to young children and discovering French picture books were the triggers that led her

K-Gr 3–Mama Duck suggests to her four ducklings that they go outside and enjoy the day. One duckling quacks, “Me first! Me first!” and bounds out the door. “Who wants to go fishing?” she asks. That same duckling knocks Mama Duck down rushing to get her gear, all the while squawking, “Me first! Me first!” This duckling is seriously annoying. Every time Mama suggests something, the same pushy bird has to be first and doesn't care how she gets there. Her siblings have had enough of her bossy behavior but before they can let her know, Mama announces that it is time for lunch. Guess who runs to the table first? But little ducking finds two diners there discussing what they are about to eat–duck! The look on the pushy duckling is priceless as she realizes that being first isn't all it's cracked up to be. She slips away unnoticed murmuring, “Meow meow.” A lesson learned! Di Giacomo's textured art is childlike and appealing and a perfect complement to the simple text. This delightful book will allow children to predict what will happen next and surprise them at the end. Try pairing it with Brief Thief (Enchanted Lion, 2013) by the same team for more giggles and fun.–Joan Kindig, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VAα(c) Copyright 2013. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.