This is the story of a rescue duck from the day it hatches to when it reaches full maturity as a male wood duck. Our story takes place in a small town in southwest Michigan where there are plenty of woods, fields, and wetlands. A small duck is rescued from certain death by a family. As the duckling grows stronger, so does the family's bond and commitment to take care and nurture the duckling.

When Woody begins to display his true colors as a male wood duck, he also shows off his personality by swimming, diving, and practicing his flying skills in the family's pool while providing readers with a fascinating glimpse into a duck's habitat. This adventure story has its high and low points, but through the strength and high spirit of the family's bond, all is well in the end. Part fiction and nonfiction, this story tugs on the heartstrings of all readers, regardless of their age.