THE GOBBLE GOBBLE MOOOOOOO TRACTOR BOOK

In this lackluster new picture book, young readers are introduced to the noises of popular farm animals, though they may find themselves confused. A group of farm animals comes together to have some fun while Farmer Dougal is still sound asleep. The sheep decides to take the farmer’s tractor out for an imaginary spin, and all the animals join in the mischief. “This is the sound a tractor makes when you turn the engine on...” says the Sheep. “BA-AA-A-A-A-A.” The cow says, “I can do the engine when the tractor goes fast...MOOOOOOOO.” This may leave young children a bit baffled, as they know perfectly well that the engine of a tractor doesn’t much sound like a sheep or a cow. The illustrations are typical of Alborough’s work, and his portrayal of the farm and its inhabitants possesses a fitting simplicity and warmth. Young children are sure to be drawn to the genial animals and vibrant farmland, but without much of a plot to engage with, it may be difficult for them to take much away. (Picture book. 2-6)