The Tale of the Mandarin Duck

A Modern Fable

By: Bette Midler, Michiko Kakutani

Narrated by: Bette Midler

Inspired by the real-life rainbow-colored Mandarin Duck who appeared in New York’s Central Park in 2018, this modern fable by Bette Midler celebrates the connections people make with each other and the world around them.

How do you get people to appreciate what is right in front of them? In The Tale of the Mandarin Duck, it takes a mysterious, beautiful duck and a clear-eyed kid to point out the obvious! This audiobook will have listeners of all ages coming back to visit the fantastical interpretation of New York City and its odd ducks—both feathered and human.

An afterword by Ms. Kakutani adds details to the facts behind this one-of-a-kind story of the Mandarin Duck.

Critic reviews

“Midler has crafted a loving ode to the people of New York…. A celebration of beauty—in a city, in its people, and in an extraordinary avian visitor.” –Kirkus Reviews, starred review

“This story is rooted in reality yet slyly surreal…. There is a crackling creative synergy among the book’s collaborators, each of whom contributes bountifully to the storytelling.” –Publishers Weekly, starred review

a fun fable of the legendary duck

I recall my own excitement seeing the duck for the first time. In her own unique style, Bette Midler celebrates all that is wonderful about this special bird, and time, in Manhattan.

I love Bett Midler!

Just hearing her voice is a joy! This book can be enjoyed by many for days to come.

Bette is divine as always!

Loved Bettes reading of this. So moving and genuine. The story brought me to tears.