Once Upon MacDonald's Farm

Gammell, S. (1981). Once Upon MacDonald's Farm. New York:  Simon & Schuster.

Everyone knows the story of Old MacDonald's Farm with the cows and the chickens. But what about MacDonald before his farm had cows and chickens? He had an elephant, lion and baboon; believe it or not.

Stephen Gammell shares the story of MacDonald, who is a confused farmer, as he tries to figure it all out. Eventually MacDonald has a little help, but not before he makes the mistake of trying to milk a lion. 

Once Upon MacDonald's Farm includes beautiful pencil renderings. The artwork creates a nostalgic mood to the audience familiar with the old children's song. But the pencil work is in sharp contrast to the humorous plot line. The text is also hand lettered, which adds to the artistic quality of the book. It's no wonder that Gammell multiple Caldecott for other works. 

Gammell's picture book shares the theme of trying in the face of adversity, or elephants, until you succeed. The language is simple and easy enough for young readers, who may need assistance with a few words, but the artwork helps. Readers should know the song, or else the intended humor will be lost.

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Grandpa Green
A Sick Day for Amos McGee