Make Way for the Ducklings

Not many books can brag about being an official state book, but "Make Way for the Ducklings" by Robert McCloskey can!
"Make Way for the Ducklings" is a story of Mr. and Mrs. Mallard, who are flying about in search of a nice place to raise their family. Every spot that Mr. Mallard picks, Mrs. Mallard dislikes for one reason or another. Eventually they land in Boston and spot the lagoon in Boston Gardens. They land there and decide to spend the night. The next morning, they see a swan boat. They think it is a real swan that is carrying people. The people throw nuts to the two and they decide to stay in the area. But suddenly a bicyclist frightens Mrs. Mallard so much they move on to the Charles River, where they find an island that is perfect for a little family.  Mrs. Mallard lays her eggs and over the course of time hatches eight little ducklings.
Once the ducklings are hatched Mr. Mallard decides to go back to the public gardens and Mrs. Mallard agrees to follow when the ducklings are a little bigger. She teaches them all they need to know about being ducks. When the ducklings are big enough to leave, they line up for the march towards the public gardens.  The traffic is scary, with none of the cars letting the little family pass, but Michael, the police officer who has been keeping an eye on the ducks, quickly steps in and halts traffic. Then he calls ahead for back up to handle the rest of the ducks' march to the gardens. Once the little family reunites, Mr. and Mrs. Mallard decide to stay in the public gardens.
This book was written in the 1940s. Since it's inception it has become an integral part of Boston culture. Statues have been erected in the Boston Public Gardens of the ducklings and Mrs. Mallard. In addition, Boston has a yearly festival to honor the ducklings with children and adults dressing the part of the ducks and reenacting the ducks' path.
The illustrations are rather old fashioned, and in this age of  children getting lights and colors in their books, games and cartoons, 24/7 it seems almost restful. The book was a Caldecott winner for the illustrations, but to some children who are used to more active illustrations it might seem dull. But it seems to fit with the old fashioned book.
"Make Way for the Ducklings" is a wonderful book to read on a spring day. And when you finish it, go to the park. Mr. and Mrs. Mallard should be home.