Through the Looking Glass Children's Book Reviews
Our Farm: By the Animals of Farm Sanctuary
Illustrator: Robert Rahway Zakanitch
Poetry Picture Book
For ages 5 to 8
Knopf Books for Young Readers, 2010 ISBN: 978-0375861185
There are two special farms in America where farm animals who have had hard lives can find peace and comfort. Farm Sanctuary, an organization that is all about giving farm animals a better way of life, runs both of these farms. The poems in this book are written from the point of view of some of the animals who live on the Farm Sanctuary in Watkins, New York.
We begin with Maya, a cow who has been around for a while and who can teach us a “thing or two.” With her big soft eyes, “Grandma Moo” offers to show us a “wonderful spot in sun.” She also knows where the best grass and clover can be found.
Next, we hear from Mayfly, a rooster who watches over the hens in his care with an eagle eye. He tells us about something that every “true” rooster knows – that when it comes to hens it is always “ladies first.”
The author goes on to let us into the lives of J.D the piglet (who is always “running” around until someone comes along with a meal,) and Gabriella the chicken, Clarabell the goat, a passel of ducklings who get into mischief, and many others. For each animal, the author captures the essence of their personality or a picture of a special moment or emotion.
This is a perfect book for animal lovers and poetry lovers alike. With wonderful paintings throughout, and a special message from the author at the back of the book, this is a title that would make a great gift.
