Carl and the Baby Duck

Reach for this book when your child is beginning to notice others in distress or is learning the quiet responsibilities of being a 'big kid' helper. This gentle story follows Carl, a patient and loyal Rottweiler, as he discovers a baby duckling who has been separated from its family. Rather than simply playing, Carl takes on a protective role, guiding the duckling through various backyard encounters until they find the mother duck. It is a masterclass in modeling empathy and reliable caregiving. Parents will appreciate the book's calm pacing and the way it celebrates small acts of kindness without needing a high-stakes conflict. The narrative is simple enough for toddlers to follow but contains emotional depth that encourages preschoolers to think about how they can support those who are smaller or more vulnerable than themselves. It is a soothing choice for bedtime or any moment when you want to reinforce the value of being a dependable friend.