From the Farm, to Our Table

Gr 1-3–As noted in Antwan Eady’s The Last Stand, the number of small farms is decreasing, and this children’s picture book, rendered digitally, intends to help readers understand their importance. The book opens with two siblings enjoying breakfast with food that came directly from their farm. After finishing, their mama says, “Remember this food didn’t get here by itself. Time for chores.” From there, Mama and the two kids, Leo and Finlay, head out to work the farm where they visit chickens, cows, and pigs. A discussion ensues about raising the animals, how they live, the different things they eat, and what foods they provide for people. Hunting deer for venison is also discussed. After visiting the animals, there is an inspection of the garden where vegetables are harvested. Following the tour, they all decide to make shepherd’s pie using venison and homegrown ingredients. Readers will find Finlay and Leo to be attentive to the animals and occurrences on the farm. While outside, onomatopoeia is used to convey the different sounds common around a farm. Bright illustrations fill most of each page, and all characters are drawn as white.