Willow Pond was exactly right for a swan nursery. In the spring, the young cob and his mate built their nest on its bank and settled down to hatch the greenish-gray eggs. Soon five fluffy cygnets paraded solemnly on the tree-ringed pond. But the oldest cygnet was especially daring. Once the floating log he investigated turned out to be a snapping turtle, and his attempt to follow a grebe almost ended in disaster. When autumn came, it was time for the swans to fly away, and with eagerly arched necks they rose into the air. As the cob led them high over the countryside, once again it was the oldest cygnet who broke away, gliding down to a park lake. Like his father before him, he had chosen his own winter home.

This story of a swan family during one year comes vividly to life. The wonderfully detailed drawings on every page reflect its simplicity and drama.

From the dust jacket