Description
Book SynopsisInspired by Robert McCloskey‘s beloved children’s book of the same name, the iconic bronze Make Way for Ducklings sculpture in Boston’s Public Garden has come to serve as something of a record of the recent decades of life in the city itself. In a series of delightful photographs taken by members of the public, Ducks on Parade! chronicles many of the original, moving, humorous, and startling outfits that artistic Bostonians have dressed the ducks in. From summer hats to winter scarves, from the Women’s March to Black Lives Matter, the ducks reflect the life of the city and our country. Featuring a text by sculptor Nancy Schön, this book is a tribute to all Bostonians whose creativity and generosity have made this constant collaborative art possible. More than this, it is a revealing look at the lasting power of public art and how viewers can also be participants. Ducks on Parade! is perfect for whimsical readers of any age.
Trade Review“Few works of art hold such a special place in so many hearts as Schön’s
Make Way for Ducklings sculpture in Boston’s Public Garden. This tribute to one of the greatest American children’s books has become one of our city’s most iconic landmarks. Soon after Mrs. Mallard and her eight ducklings made their home there in 1987 they took on lives of their own. The people of Boston didn’t just admire the new sculpture, they embraced it with open arms. People started adorning the ducks with holiday decorations and symbols of Boston pride. A new Boston tradition took off, and it’s here to stay.” -- Martin J. Walsh, Mayor of Boston
"Over the years, the iconic “Make Way for Ducklings” sculpture in the Public Garden, with its ever-changing array of topical attire, has come to represent an evolving Boston through the lens of current events, and [
Ducks on Parade!] explores this local phenomenon using images of the Ducks donning some of their most memorable costumes." * Beacon Hill Times *
"The simplicity and beauty of this book belie its importance. The photographs are a testament to the power of public art. Public art can connect, it can touch and sometimes maybe influence. Perhaps the ducklings help us look at the world differently." * MetroWest Daily News *
"At age 92, Schön put together her own book. . . . it's a photographic journey of the ducks dressed in uniforms of Boston's sports teams when they are in the playoffs, COVID-19 face masks, and lace collars to honor the late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg." * AAA Explorer *
Table of ContentsForeword, Introduction, Four Seasons of Ducks, Ducks with a Message, About the Public Gardens, Acknowledgments
