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Duck & Goose
Duck & Goose: Find A Pumpkin
Go on a pumpkin hunt with Duck & Goose in this fall themed board book! Now an animated series, available to stream on Apple TV+!
New York Times bestselling author and illustrator Tad Hills brings our favorite feathered friends out to find a big, beautiful pumpkin in this sturdy board book. Duck & Goose look everywhere for a pumpkin-in the apple tree, in the leaf pile, inside a hollow log.... Where will they find one?
Perfect for your favorite fall holidays, and a fun read-a-long for fans of Duck and Goose any time of year!
New York Times bestselling author and illustrator Tad Hills brings our favorite feathered friends out to find a big, beautiful pumpkin in this sturdy board book. Duck & Goose look everywhere for a pumpkin-in the apple tree, in the leaf pile, inside a hollow log.... Where will they find one?
Perfect for your favorite fall holidays, and a fun read-a-long for fans of Duck and Goose any time of year!
20 pages, Board Book
First published July 28, 2009
40 people are currently reading
448 people want to read
About the author
Tad Hills
60 books124 followers“Whenever I picture myself [as a child],” says Tad Hills, “I am doing art. I spent a lot of time on my own making things, drawing, and painting.” Hills was not consciously trying to become an artist, rather his motives were innocent and pure. “I liked making things,” he says.
As a graduate of Skidmore College in New York with a degree in art, Hills describes himself as the ultimate freelancer. He’s done some acting, made jewelry, makes fake teeth for stage productions, dabbled in interior renovation, and illustrated book jackets for adult trade books. But Hills’ break into children’s publishing coincided with his wife Lee’s new position as the art director for Simon and Schuster’s children’s book division. “Lee used to ask me to try illustrating some books she couldn’t find an illustrator for,” Hills says. When Lee moved to Random House to start her own imprint with long-time friend and associate, Ann Schwartz, she encouraged Hills to write his own picture books. “I started with four stories,” says Hills. His break out book, Duck and Goose (Schwartz and Wade, 2006) was one of them.
The idea for Duck and Goose started with only a title—The Silly Goose, the Odd Duck and the Good Egg. As Hills developed the story, he realized his egg would have to be rather large to support Duck and Goose so they could hatch it. Hills also had to consider what would hatch out of such a large egg. A dinosaur? An ostrich? Additionally, Hills floated the title by his son’s kindergarten class and was rewarded with blank stares. Hills took the hint and changed his egg to a ball, and changed the title.
“For me, the writing is really difficult. I stare at a blank page for hours,” he says. “When Lee comes home and asks me about my day, I say it was okay. I wrote one sentence. . .But when I’m in the zone, I literally hear the dialogue between [Duck and Goose]. They were telling me what they wanted to say! That is the best feeling. That is when it’s not work. It’s fun!”
Hills paints with water-soluble oil paint on paper, using colored pencils for the last details. Although Hills’ Duck and Goose characters look simple enough, he drew hundreds of ducks and geese before finding a style with which he was comfortable. “The first ones [I drew] were older looking,” he says. “They looked like cigar-smoking tough guys.” Over a matter of months, Hills finally pared down Duck and Goose to their essential elements—circular heads, long rectangular legs, triangular feet, and door-shaped beaks. “When I apply the eyebrow,” he says, “I can express what Duck is feeling.”
As Hills’ two children grow, he finds himself drawn to how kids treat each other. “I didn’t tolerate meanness or injustice as a kid,” he says. In Duck, Duck, Goose (Schwartz and Wade, 2007), Hills creates a friendship triangle by introducing a new duck named Thistle. Together Duck, Goose, and Thistle give Hills’ observations a voice and provide several conversation starters for parents and children.
Hills writes from his home in Brooklyn, New York. Some days he doesn’t write at all, but tries to stay receptive to what he’s experiencing. “Most of my ideas come to me when I’m not looking,” he says. “It’s hard to get yourself to a point where ideas are out there and you can grab them.”
from http://www.patriciamnewman.com/hills....
As a graduate of Skidmore College in New York with a degree in art, Hills describes himself as the ultimate freelancer. He’s done some acting, made jewelry, makes fake teeth for stage productions, dabbled in interior renovation, and illustrated book jackets for adult trade books. But Hills’ break into children’s publishing coincided with his wife Lee’s new position as the art director for Simon and Schuster’s children’s book division. “Lee used to ask me to try illustrating some books she couldn’t find an illustrator for,” Hills says. When Lee moved to Random House to start her own imprint with long-time friend and associate, Ann Schwartz, she encouraged Hills to write his own picture books. “I started with four stories,” says Hills. His break out book, Duck and Goose (Schwartz and Wade, 2006) was one of them.
The idea for Duck and Goose started with only a title—The Silly Goose, the Odd Duck and the Good Egg. As Hills developed the story, he realized his egg would have to be rather large to support Duck and Goose so they could hatch it. Hills also had to consider what would hatch out of such a large egg. A dinosaur? An ostrich? Additionally, Hills floated the title by his son’s kindergarten class and was rewarded with blank stares. Hills took the hint and changed his egg to a ball, and changed the title.
“For me, the writing is really difficult. I stare at a blank page for hours,” he says. “When Lee comes home and asks me about my day, I say it was okay. I wrote one sentence. . .But when I’m in the zone, I literally hear the dialogue between [Duck and Goose]. They were telling me what they wanted to say! That is the best feeling. That is when it’s not work. It’s fun!”
Hills paints with water-soluble oil paint on paper, using colored pencils for the last details. Although Hills’ Duck and Goose characters look simple enough, he drew hundreds of ducks and geese before finding a style with which he was comfortable. “The first ones [I drew] were older looking,” he says. “They looked like cigar-smoking tough guys.” Over a matter of months, Hills finally pared down Duck and Goose to their essential elements—circular heads, long rectangular legs, triangular feet, and door-shaped beaks. “When I apply the eyebrow,” he says, “I can express what Duck is feeling.”
As Hills’ two children grow, he finds himself drawn to how kids treat each other. “I didn’t tolerate meanness or injustice as a kid,” he says. In Duck, Duck, Goose (Schwartz and Wade, 2007), Hills creates a friendship triangle by introducing a new duck named Thistle. Together Duck, Goose, and Thistle give Hills’ observations a voice and provide several conversation starters for parents and children.
Hills writes from his home in Brooklyn, New York. Some days he doesn’t write at all, but tries to stay receptive to what he’s experiencing. “Most of my ideas come to me when I’m not looking,” he says. “It’s hard to get yourself to a point where ideas are out there and you can grab them.”
from http://www.patriciamnewman.com/hills....
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 189 reviews
February 10, 2015
My kid loves this book. I had to read it 7 times in a row the other day and he wanted it five times last night. Sweet illustrations and not much story, but he loves ducks and geese so much -- he sits there saying "honk" and "quack" and "duck" and "gus" -- so what the heck. I guess I can stand it a few more times.
May 5, 2019
عنوان ترجمه فارسی: چی بود؟ چی بود؟ کدو بود
October 31, 2021
يا حلوين 🧡🧡🦆🦢🧡🧡
31.10.2021
31.10.2021
September 21, 2021
A soft four, but still four. Rowan may also be a bit too old for this one, but hey that's a bit subjective anyway. He likes it, and we have a good time. The illustrations are cute and work just fine. Of course, Rowan likes saying "No" each time. Everything is "No" these days. Unless he's really emphatically opposed to something, then it's "no thank you." So that's cool. He also just likes looking for things different places and saying "nope!" (inspired by My Neighbor Totoro). And he likes going out to see the vegetable plants in the garden with Kylie. So this book offers lots of familiar things. A good time.
September 9, 2023
Thistle has a pumpkin; Duck and Goose want one too. They're not really sure where to find one, though, so they look everywhere.
This is a simple story with a repetitive motif. It goes on just long enough to be funny without getting boring. It would be a fun one for interactive group reading.
This is a simple story with a repetitive motif. It goes on just long enough to be funny without getting boring. It would be a fun one for interactive group reading.
March 7, 2022
Rating: 5 leaves out of 5
Characters: 5/5
Cover: 5/5
Story: 5/5
Writing: 5/5
Genre: Children/ Board book
Type: Book
Worth?: Yes
Characters: 5/5
Cover: 5/5
Story: 5/5
Writing: 5/5
Genre: Children/ Board book
Type: Book
Worth?: Yes
October 21, 2022
Duck and Goose always make me laugh, and this pumpkin finding excursion is no exception. The story is very concise and conveys a lot through the pictures, so it's perfect for little bitty "readers."
Read
December 2, 2025This book was really big! I liked to slap the pages
December 27, 2025
Son loved the apple tree, had to read so much I memorized the book. Counting this in my good reads, no shame.
November 10, 2019
This is cute and the illustrations are lovely. My son loves it and we’ve read it probably close to a dozen times already. We’ll have to look for the other Duck and Goose books.
March 3, 2023
Pumpkin!
February 3, 2021
It appears this is part of a series, so no introduction of characters or establishing of setting. Comes off as comic-bookish.
July 23, 2017
This one always gets a chuckle from kids and adults.
October 6, 2015
Very cute board book. This was one of a handful of selections from our Brightly box for September/October. Duck & Goose are really cute characters as is their grey friend Thistle. They want a pumpkin and head all around finding fun fall/autumn things to do along the way seeking a pumpkin.
This is adorable, repetitive, durable, fun loving board book. Everyone from my 15 month old toddler son, barely four-year-old daughter, to my newly six year old daughter enjoy this cute book. It is going in our Fall book box to come out year after year.
This is adorable, repetitive, durable, fun loving board book. Everyone from my 15 month old toddler son, barely four-year-old daughter, to my newly six year old daughter enjoy this cute book. It is going in our Fall book box to come out year after year.
November 11, 2013
A great book for preschoolers and younger, this adorable story has duck & goose getting ready for Christmas. The illustrations are adorable and the simple language was easily repeatable my my 3 yr olds. No educational value except for reading and instilling the love of books in your child! Highly recommended for the smaller children.
September 23, 2012
Absolutely darling illustrations! I love the Duck & Goose books. This one is suitably autumn-y as Duck and Goose look through apple trees and fallen leaves and such for a perfect pumpkin. So cute! Great seasonal title for the little ones.
October 7, 2009
perfect for toddler story time...do you see a pumpkin...
October 17, 2015
A Lilac Wolf and Stuff Review
Awww, they want a pumpkin, too. But first they need to find one. They look all over, will they ever find that pumpkin. Fall friendly and cute.
Awww, they want a pumpkin, too. But first they need to find one. They look all over, will they ever find that pumpkin. Fall friendly and cute.
November 4, 2016
Adorable, as usual!
December 7, 2025
The characters in this delightful tale are not just loveable; they are truly adorable and remarkably relatable, resonating with readers of all ages. Duck and Goose are crafted with such care that they embody the essence of friendship and the joys of exploring the world around them. Their personalities shine through in every interaction, making it easy for young readers to connect with them on an emotional level. Each character is designed with unique traits that contribute to the story's charm, ensuring that they leave a lasting impression long after the last page is turned. The settings throughout the book are not only realistic but are also vividly illustrated, creating an immersive experience that draws readers into the enchanting world of autumn. The rich colors and intricate details in the illustrations capture the essence of fall, from the golden leaves to the crisp air, allowing readers to feel as if they are part of Duck and Goose's adventures. Each scene is carefully crafted to evoke the sights and sounds of the season, making it a perfect read for those cozy autumn days. The writing style is short and sweet, infused with a delightful sense of humor that makes the narrative enjoyable for both children and adults. The author, Tad Hills, has a remarkable ability to convey complex themes in simple language, ensuring that the story remains accessible while also engaging. The humor sprinkled throughout the text adds a light-hearted touch that keeps readers entertained, making it an enjoyable read-aloud choice for parents and educators alike. Although the plot is relatively brief, it is packed with realism, humor, and a sense of adventure that captivates readers from beginning to end. The story explores themes of friendship, the beauty of nature, and the excitement of embarking on adventures, all while incorporating a wonderful array of fall activities that resonate with children. From searching for the perfect pumpkin to enjoying the crisp autumn air, the narrative encapsulates the essence of the season in a way that is both fun and educational .The illustrations in "Duck and Goose Find A Pumpkin" are nothing short of stunning. They are vibrant and beautifully rendered, effectively bringing the story and its characters to life. Each page bursts with color, making it visually appealing and engaging for young readers. The artwork complements the text perfectly, enhancing the overall reading experience and allowing children to immerse themselves fully in the story's world. However, one aspect that could have enhanced the narrative even further is a scene depicting Duck and Goose in the pumpkin patch at the end of the story. Instead of merely holding the pumpkin, a more dynamic illustration of them exploring the patch would have added depth and excitement to the conclusion. This moment could have highlighted their friendship and the joy of finding the perfect pumpkin together, reinforcing the themes of adventure and discovery that are central to the story. "Duck and Goose Find A Pumpkin" by Tad Hills is a beautifully illustrated book that appeals not only to children but also to readers of all ages who are in search of a short, sweet, and autumn-themed tale. It is a perfect choice for those looking to celebrate the season while enjoying a heartwarming story filled with themes of friendship, adventure, and the simple pleasures of nature. This book is sure to become a cherished addition to any child's library, making it a must-read during the fall season.
April 22, 2020
This thought-provoking dramatic novel will keep you in suspense from cover-to-cover. This New York Times Best-selling series revolve around a pair of misguided characters aliased as Duck and Goose. Book 6 of 14 in this series completely blows its preceding books out of the water with a gripping tale of adventure that sets up the ensuing series in what promises to be a once-in-a-generation, culture-altering phenomenon. This book will have you cheering, jeering, crying and sighing as the readers are taken on a nonstop roller-coaster of emotions in the magical land that Tad Hills has created.
Synopsis (NO SPOIILERS):
Two unlikely characters launch their adventure after discovering their correlative admiration for a mutual friend’s pumpkin. Following a frank and direct conversation, Duck decides that he will set off on this adventure and is motivated enough to tackle this journey solo. Not to be outdone, Goose ignores all other aspects of his life (which presumably includes: a job at the company he owns whom without his presence will possibly go under and leave a great many people unemployed and impoverished, a spouse that has been teetering on the brink of relapsing into alcoholism, and has been wholly-reliant on Goose for support through this tough time, and a handful of goslings that will now be forced to grow up in a one-parent home should Goose fail to return from his perilous journey) to join his new friend in his quest for a lovely gourd. Their saga has many unexpected twists and turns and leads readers into some dark corners of the human psyche, as the progressively despondent duo are obliged to continue their increasingly fruitless effort to locate an ever-elusive squash.
Synopsis (NO SPOIILERS):
Two unlikely characters launch their adventure after discovering their correlative admiration for a mutual friend’s pumpkin. Following a frank and direct conversation, Duck decides that he will set off on this adventure and is motivated enough to tackle this journey solo. Not to be outdone, Goose ignores all other aspects of his life (which presumably includes: a job at the company he owns whom without his presence will possibly go under and leave a great many people unemployed and impoverished, a spouse that has been teetering on the brink of relapsing into alcoholism, and has been wholly-reliant on Goose for support through this tough time, and a handful of goslings that will now be forced to grow up in a one-parent home should Goose fail to return from his perilous journey) to join his new friend in his quest for a lovely gourd. Their saga has many unexpected twists and turns and leads readers into some dark corners of the human psyche, as the progressively despondent duo are obliged to continue their increasingly fruitless effort to locate an ever-elusive squash.
September 16, 2025
Those fowl friends Duck and Goose go on the hunt for a pumpkin in this sweetly amusing board book from author/illustrator Tad Hills. Seeing their friend Thistle with one of these gourds, they decide they must have one of their own, looking in all kinds of unlikely places until a helpful suggestion points them to the pumpkin patch...
Having read and enjoyed three of the picture books about this anatine duo, I immediately snatched up Duck & Goose: Find a Pumpkin when I saw it on an autumn display at the library. I enjoy these characters, and I love fall colors and themes, so I knew I would appreciate it. How right I was, finding the simple story amusing—the ending, in which the friends decide they are excellent hunters, was particularly droll—and the artwork, which is done in oil paint, bright and appealing. Recommended to fans of these characters, and to anyone looking for autumn or pumpkin-themed board books.
Having read and enjoyed three of the picture books about this anatine duo, I immediately snatched up Duck & Goose: Find a Pumpkin when I saw it on an autumn display at the library. I enjoy these characters, and I love fall colors and themes, so I knew I would appreciate it. How right I was, finding the simple story amusing—the ending, in which the friends decide they are excellent hunters, was particularly droll—and the artwork, which is done in oil paint, bright and appealing. Recommended to fans of these characters, and to anyone looking for autumn or pumpkin-themed board books.
August 24, 2021
Duck and Goose go forth on an epic quest to find a pumpkin in all the wrong places. Along their journey they receive advice from the wise Thistle, only to forget who told them about where to find the pumpkin.
Twas adorable.
The art and the expressions of Duck and Goose were finely rendered and engaging, I smiled at their antics throughout this little book. Two thumbs up.
Story: Narrative-Epic Quest :D
Art: Delicate and engaging
Price: $6.99
Twas adorable.
The art and the expressions of Duck and Goose were finely rendered and engaging, I smiled at their antics throughout this little book. Two thumbs up.
Story: Narrative-Epic Quest :D
Art: Delicate and engaging
Price: $6.99
September 26, 2023
Duck and Goose see their friend Thistle with a pumpkin. They think that it's really nice, so they go look for their own! Join them on a pumpkin hunt in this super fun book! This book is great for young kids, but I still love it. My cat really likes it, too. - If I put it on the floor she'll come over and sit on itn 😂 Duck and Goose books are the best! Follow @bronteandwilder on Instagram for more fun book recommendations!
April 12, 2024
you can not enlarge illustrations or text on the kindle FIRE, that would totally improve (reasoning for a lower star rating, so that is the point of this read, i am reading through a kindle FIRE if it is not in tip top shape that is pushing on those stars. just saying,) the reading experience when reading on a kindle FIRE. just a thought. tip. fun illustrations. a very quick read. so cute. children's duck books. (books & kindle store) children's Halloween books. sept 28, 2011.
October 19, 2018
I was looking for some books for a Halloween storytime that includes children who are preschoolers of all ages. Add to the age difference the fact that for many of these English is not the language spoken in their homes... You can't miss with Duck and Goose! Children love these characters, the art, and the simple story. I was happy to find this.
February 25, 2019
Duck & Goose are a funny pair of friends - they look everywhere for a pumpkin and finally find one (spoiler alert!) in the pumpkin patch! Cute board book for Fall. For more children's book recommendations join the Loud and Cleary Book Club on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/32631... or visit https://loudandcleary.com/category/bo...
October 1, 2024
Nana got this book for Jack as part of a Halloween bundle on Facebook marketplace.
Jack was finally open to new Halloween books tonight, so we jumped on it. Nana was excited to read this one because the illustrations are so dang cute. Jack ate teddy grahams while I read. He wasn't as excited about the birds as I expected, but he did like the big pumpkin.
Jack was finally open to new Halloween books tonight, so we jumped on it. Nana was excited to read this one because the illustrations are so dang cute. Jack ate teddy grahams while I read. He wasn't as excited about the birds as I expected, but he did like the big pumpkin.
December 6, 2024
I read this one aloud at storytime at the local bookstore. We had only one toddler there this week, but she loved it! She recently learned to say "duck" and got a kick out of pointing to the pictures of the Duck and calling out his name. A cute book with colorful pictures and an easy-to-follow storyline.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 189 reviews