My Brother the Duck

Stella Wells is convinced her new baby brother will be a duck. She bases this theory on scientific observations and evidence she has collected about her pregnant mother's behavior and habits. Armed with a science journal and determination, Stella monitors the situation closely once her brother arrives. She documents her findings and conducts experiments to test her hypothesis about her sibling's true nature. Through Stella's methodical investigation, this picture book explores how a child processes and comes to terms with a major family change. The story celebrates curiosity, scientific thinking, and the special relationship between siblings.

Readers note this picture book resonates with children who are anxious about new siblings. Many parents report their kids request repeated readings and relate to protagonist Stella's suspicions about her baby brother. Liked: - Humorous take on sibling anxiety - Scientific method woven into story naturally - Bright, expressive illustrations - Good discussion starter about new siblings - Accessible STEM concepts Disliked: - Some found the duck premise too far-fetched - A few readers wanted more emotional depth - Plot resolution felt rushed to some Ratings: Goodreads: 4.2/5 (244 ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (133 ratings) "Perfect for little scientists and big sisters/brothers-to-be" - Parent reviewer on Amazon "The scientific angle makes this stand out from other new sibling books" - School librarian on Goodreads "My daughter asks for this nightly and takes notes like Stella" - Parent reviewer on Barnes & Noble

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🦆 Author Pat Zietlow Miller got the idea for this book after remembering how her older daughter was convinced her new baby sister would be born a pterodactyl. 🔬 The main character, Stella, uses the scientific method to investigate whether her new baby brother is actually a duck—complete with a hypothesis, observations, and conclusions. 🎨 The book's illustrator, Daniel Wiseman, cleverly includes rubber ducks and other duck-themed items throughout the illustrations, adding to the story's playful mystery. 📚 This book helps children understand and cope with the arrival of a new sibling while introducing basic concepts of scientific investigation in a humorous way. 🏆 Pat Zietlow Miller has written over a dozen children's books, and several have won notable awards, including the Charlotte Zolotow Honor and the Crystal Kite Award.