Images come to life through the rich language which gently complements the detailed illustrations of Kasia Charko. The warmth of the cabin is felt in the browns of the wood interior, and the reader can feel the cold of the winter wind blowing as Marie runs to the lake. A large two-page illustration looking down on the wood ducks flying was the only disappointment in the book as the ducks appear lifeless and flat. All the other illustrations have depth and motion. Through the story, the reader learns that the mallards and the pintails have already left as the snow is about to fall. The wood ducks, however, are the last to go.

From Poppa is a book with excellent curriculum ties in the areas of migration, seasons and family, and its contents could lead to discussions on aging and separation. Carter ends the story with a wonderful reminder that, even though something may disappear, the memory will always be there. Readers will love the implied fantasy of the wooden duck's coming to life and the colourful painting that Marie did to complete the work on her grandfather's gift.

Highly Recommended.