When the sun first sheds its light on the farm, the quiet patch of land is bestirred by the exuberant “Cock-a-doodle-doo” of the resident rooster. The farmer awakens and begins his day with a “squeak” and a “creak.” This tale is more than just a tour of a farm hosted by a grandfatherly farmer, though; it’s a rural orchestra. Standing out in large jaunty letters are the everyday noises of the farm. More than just animal utterances, although there are plenty of moos and oinks, there are also the “lip-lap” of cat’s milk and “bubble-de-blip” of oatmeal simmering. While the farmer goes about his duties, the day is bursting with auditory treats. The farmer shows deep love with his actions, but he hasn’t uttered a sound. “At last he speaks with words.” The farmer bestows a fond goodnight on his animals and the elements alike. The illustrations are rhapsodic, bursting with color, activity, and detail. This is a warm-hearted story that hints at the importance of symbiosis—and has a jolly good time doing it. (Picture book. 3-6)
