The Little Duckling Who Wouldn't Get Wet

In this international best-seller, Little Duckling will get wet. . . . but only when it's ready!

All ducks must swim, says the big duck. But the little duckling isn't ready to swim--not yet. One by one, other animals come to try to convince the little duckling to jump in. They push and shove, but the little duckling is firm: not yet!

With irresistible art and a story that builds and builds as the duckling stands firm, this is a perfect read-aloud that encourages young listeners to think about their own needs and keep healthy boundaries--and to be brave when they are ready to try something new.

From the hilarious pile of animals trying to get little duckling to dive in to the final view of little duckling swimming along happily, Gek Tessaro's colorful, cut-paper collage art is lively and reminiscent of classics like Eric Carle's Very Hungry Caterpillar. With its patterned text and unexpected, hilarious ending, this international best-seller, originally from Italy, is a perfect read-aloud, sure to provide an engaging experience.

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection
A Bank Street Best Childrens Book of the Year

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs