Michael Bedard crafts narratives that delve into the complexities of human experience, often infusing them with a touch of the magical and supernatural. His prose is rich and evocative, building atmospheric worlds that draw readers into profound explorations of identity and art. With a keen interest in poets and poetry, his work frequently engages with literary history and the power of language. Bedard's distinctive voice invites contemplation on the blurred lines between reality and imagination.
A young girl who lives across the street from the reclusive Emily Dickinson gets her chance to meet the poet when her mother is invited to play the piano for Emily. The girl sneaks up to Emily's room and exchanges a small gift for an authentic poem, which is included in the book.
Day after day, brand new ducks roll off a giant assembly line operated by alligators at the Colossal Duck Factory. They are loaded into trucks and taken to Ducktown, where they are fattened up in preparation for their final destination-into the stomachs of alligators. Everything proceeds smoothly, until the day one of the alligators decides to take a wayward duck home. Over time, the alligator grows fond of his future dinner. Can a duck and an alligator really be friends in an alligator-eat-duck world? Find out in this charming and humorous friendship story.