Picture the scene; the full moon illuminates a softly lit forest with mountains in the peripheral, as it transforms from day to night, the remnants of the day’s pink hues still visible against the deep blue skyline. A sweet child in orange goloshes and a hooded poncho stares at his reflection in the ebbing pond. The coat is styled to look like a baby duck, and when the small child peers at his rippling reflection, a true baby duck is exactly what he sees. So why does he feel so different to all of the other ducklings?
This is the premise of Boya Sun’s delightful short comic Story About a Duck from this year’s ShortBox Comics Fair. Baby Duck is utterly in awe of his Mama, so, when the day comes for him to learn to swim, he is eager to impress. But Baby Duck doesn’t take to swimming like a duck to water (excuse the pun) and has to be rescued by a disappointed Mama. Feeling frustrated and upset, Baby Duck is more determined than ever that he won’t sink next time. But his unconventional methods do little to impress the traditional Mama…
The ethos of the story is all about acceptance; it is clear from the start that Baby Duck is a disguised little boy, and that he won’t be able to swim in the same way that a duck can. Yet, he is able to do things his own way, outside of the confines of Mama’s strict worldview. Slowly, with time, he brings her around to a more accepting way of thinking, no longer needing his duck disguise to feel included amongst his family and friends. This is also a story about growing up and being able to stand on your own two feet, without needing your mother to be your comfort blanket at all times.
Story About a Duck is such a sweet comic, illustrated in the cutesiest style, with a wonderful message about self-acceptance and embracing your true self at its core. The soft, comforting art-style and lighter colours are a visual treat that will have you ‘aww-ing’ at every page. It is available to buy digitally for the month of October from ShortBox Comics Fair.
Boya Sun (W/A) • ShortBox Comics Fair, £7.00
Review by Lydia Turner
