When Bartek the woodcutter saves the King of the Frogs in this Polish folk tale, his kindness is rewarded with the ability to summon storms. But what use does a simple woodcutter have for wild winds and rain? Quite a bit, as Bartek discovers when his beloved pet duck is threatened...

This charming tale of a simple man who saves his animal companion from harm won Britain's Kate Greenaway Medal - awarded annually to the best-illustrated children's book - in 1972. The story of The Woodcutter's Duck will resonate with anyone who has loved an animal, and the humorous illustrations will entertain. I myself first encountered Krystyna Turska's work through her marvelous picture book, The Magician of Cracow, and consider that the superior book, both in terms of narrative and artwork. However that may be, I am glad to have found another title by this talented author. ( )