Of the many volumes in our family bookcase, Robert McCloskey’s Make Way for Ducklings and Blueberries for Sal always held pride of place. The stories, the charm and personality of the illustrations, made them family favorites to be read over and over at story time.

It’s not surprising to read that the artist took his work so seriously as to fill his Greenwich Village apartment with a clutch of ducklings for inspiration. 

It befits the sensitivity of his stories, that continue to inspire children and adults alike, even after 75 years.

Thank you NPR, for sharing the celebrations! Read and listen to the whole story here.