The Odd Egg

What the Story is About

In a forest filled with proud bird parents, all boasting their beautiful eggs, Duck stands out—because he has none. That is until he finds an egg. A rather odd one.

The other birds mock him and his strange egg, which is large, green, and unlike theirs. But Duck, ever hopeful, sits on it patiently. Days pass. All the other eggs hatch... except his. Still, he waits.

When the egg finally cracks, it holds a surprising twist that startles the others but brings Duck quiet joy.

This story gently invites us to think about waiting, being different, and how love and care are not always loud or obvious—but can still be powerful.

Why This Book Matters

At first glance, The Odd Egg is a light, almost funny tale. But underneath is a tender story of being left out, finding your own way, and staying true to what you believe—even when no one else does.

Children who feel "different" or experience slow progress (be it in reading, sports, or friendships) will find comfort in Duck's patience. It reassures them that it's okay if things take time, that their journey may look different—and that's perfectly okay.

Notes on the Illustrations

Emily Gravett's artwork tells much of the story. Each egg design reflects the bird that laid it. The way the eggs hatch—with flaps revealing each chick—is visually delightful.

However, it also teaches children to observe carefully and draw meaning from details.

Duck's expressions shift subtly across pages—from hope to doubt to delight—showing how illustrations can carry emotional cues that words may not say.

The final page, where the baby crocodile is shown wearing a tiny scarf and shoes that Duck had lovingly knitted, is a tender visual cue that reinforces care, belonging, and quiet bonding.

Deeper Reflections for the Teacher

This book explores the themes of teasing, exclusion, and belonging without being heavy-handed. Duck doesn't protest or retaliate. He just carries on. Some children may resonate deeply with that. Others may feel protective of him.

Teachers can use this to invite conversations around:

• What does it feel like to be laughed at?

• How do we treat someone who chooses differently?

• Is 'waiting' a strength?

There's also a beautiful moment at the end—easy to miss but full of meaning. The baby crocodile emerges wearing a tiny scarf and shoes that Duck had knitted. This isn't just a quirky detail. It's a sign of deep affection and care. The baby accepts Duck as its parent, not because they "match," but because of the warmth it has received. And the pride on Duck's face—calm and content—shows full acceptance in return.

This moment can help children understand that families, friendships, and belonging aren't always about looking alike. Sometimes, they're about love freely given—and received.

Inviting Wonder Without Explaining Too Much

When you reach the final page, you might pause and simply ask:

• "What do you notice about the baby?"

• Let children take the lead. Some might mention the scarf and shoes. Others may notice its expression.

• Resist the urge to explain right away. Instead, follow up with quiet questions like:

  • "Why do you think Duck made those things for the baby?"

  • "How do you think the baby feels with Duck?"

  • "What does Duck's face tell us?"

This way, the children discover meaning for themselves. You're not teaching a lesson—you're opening a window.

Questions to Ask Students - (Most suitable for ages 5–8)

You can ask these during or after the reading. Let the children take their time.

• Noticing

  • Did you see how Duck's egg was different from the others?

  • What were the other birds doing while Duck waited?

• Feeling

  • How do you think Duck felt when the others laughed at his egg?

  • What do you think helped Duck stay patient?

• Thinking

  • Why do you think Duck wanted an egg of his own?

  • What could you have said or done differently if you were one of the birds?

• Imaginative

  • What do you think happened after the baby hatched?

  • Can you imagine another animal that might have been inside?

Activities After Reading

1. Our Odd Eggs

Give each child an oval template. Ask them to decorate their own "odd egg"—using patterns, colours, or even surprise flaps. Then ask:

What might be inside your egg?

Let them describe or draw it. Some might say "a poem," "a dragon," "a friend." Anything goes.

2. Mime the Mood

Ask children to silently act out Duck's feelings—hope, worry, pride—to help them connect emotions with body language and empathy.

3. A Circle of Kindness

Use this story to explore how to stand by someone who's being laughed at. Invite role-play or storytelling around:

• What if one bird had stood up for Duck?

• Can we create new endings where the birds become kinder?