Occasionally I find a book that I read and think, “Huh.” And One Cool Duck V01: King of Cool was one of those books. The concept is easy enough, we learn about what is cool and how to be cool (do not brag, be nice to others, do not show off, ad help others). And Mike Petrik’s story is good for all of that. They write a story for the (read to) five and up crowd, but one that readers just starting (with help and can solo read) will enjoy. It is goofy, feels classic so “grownups” will like (i.e.: no bad things and has a good message) but kids can still relate to and enjoy. But after finishing I was thinking, “Am I too much of an (GASP) adult to appreciate a kids’ book?”
I mean the art is good. Very colorful, not overly busy, but is serious with getting the job done. It is even sweet and silly. Okay, maybe the tone could be considered too “adult pushing the cool factor” but still I felt kids would be okay with that. They could understand, relate, and appreciate the humor. Everything about the book is set up so it is accessible to the reader, and tries not to be too tricky, making you “lose your place” and miss important points.
Yet, the adult in me was winning out and allows me to only give this a 2 or 2.5 for myself personally, but a 3 for the potential fun for the intended readers. Due in early May 2023, I might give this a second chance then (I read as an online reader copy) as finished products can fill in missing holes. And I will probably pick up One Cool Duck #2: The Far-Out Fort in October 2023.
