BUSY FARM

A farming family's work is never done.

Buoyant images depict the actions of the farmer and several youngsters as they complete their chores. Girls and boys mix both work and play, following traditional gender roles: A girl carries a basket of eggs while a boy drives the tractor, for instance. Unadorned rhymes describe the actions of both the children and their animals. “Time to fetch the fluffy sheep, / Then head for home and go to sleep.” Sliders with accompanying arrows add interactivity that complements the text. Hogs pop up above the gate with an easy push, and a turning wheel shows the dog as he rounds up the sheep. Small fingers will easily manipulate the majority of objects independently, though the bale of hay may prove difficult.

Though bright and busy, it's the movable parts that really make this farm a memorable one to visit.