Freckles is the sweet and heartwarming story of an unlikely friendship between a young girl named Mave and a duck decoy named Freckles. From the moment Freckles leaves behind his past as a hunting tool, his new life becomes a colorful journey of spreading joy, comfort, and kindness to everyone he meets. Mave brings him along everywhere, from school to the grocery store, and it quickly becomes clear that Freckles is no ordinary duck. He’s different in the best way, and he shows the world that different can be good. The story’s message is loud and clear: being unique is something to be proud of.

What I loved most about this book was how simple it was, yet how much it made me feel. The writing doesn’t try too hard. It doesn’t need to. It has a quiet rhythm to it, like a bedtime song whispered after a long day. The rhyming lines are playful without being sing-songy, and they carry a certain warmth. It felt personal, like the author was letting us peek into a real bond. That authenticity shines through. The fact that Freckles is a literal duck decoy, not a magical creature or a talking animal, makes the whole thing oddly touching. There’s a kind of grounded magic in that.

And the ideas behind it? They’re gentle but strong. The way the book handles being different. how it flips that word into something empowering, really stuck with me. Kids don’t always get to hear that message in a way that feels natural. But here, it works. Freckles helps people, not by doing big things, but by just being there. That message of everyday kindness, of quiet impact, was something I enjoyed. The illustrations add to that, too, bright and friendly and full of little touches that make each page worth a second look. The watercolor artwork is bursting with life and detail and will easily capture a child’s attention.

I’d say Freckles is a lovely read for kids ages 3 to 8, or anyone who needs a reminder that being different isn’t just okay, it’s something to be celebrated. It’s perfect for bedtime reading or classroom discussions about kindness and empathy. If you’re looking for a book that’s simple, sincere, and full of heart, this little duck might just be your next favorite friend.

Pages: 22 | ASIN : B0F8YQXP1K