Something to read……
Suggestions for Christmas presents?? Something they want, something they need, something to wear and something to READ! We have the READ covered. Let’s explore some new books with ag related themes! We encourage you to visit your local bookseller or check out Amazon Smiles and the IAA Foundation (https://smile.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_1_15?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=on+the+farm+at+the+market&sprefix=on+the+farm+at+%2Caps%2C160&crid=3NHRS1YBJUVPN)!
Check out this video! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VMr8CFb1Jrw
A Home in the Barn by Margaret Wise Brown ISBN 978-0066237879. A step back in time as the acclaimed author of Goodnight Moon looks at agriculture in the 1940s. (all ages) This book will be available at the IAA Annual Meeting in the IAA Foundation Country Store.
On the Farm, At the Market by G. Brian Karas. ISBN 978-0805093728. A book in two parts, at the farm preparing for the farmers’ market and at the market preparing to use the bounty of the harvest. (grades K-5) Also available at the IAAF Country Store!
Anywhere Farm by Phyllis Root ISBN 978-0763674991. Exploring urban farming and introducing students to the power of the seed and soil. (grades K-5)
Hey, Hey, Hay! by Christy Mihaly ISBN 978-082343668. We’ve looked high and low and finally found a book on HAY! In this touching story told in lyrical verse, you even get a recipe for switchel! (grades K-5)
Auntie Yang’s Great Soybean Picnic by Illinois Author Ginnie Lo ISBN 978-1600604423. Examining soybeans, heritage and family, this book takes a unique look at Illinois soybeans and how they are used. Beautifully illustrated by Beth Lo, the author’s sister, you’ll find each part of the story illustrated on plates. (grades K-5)
The Great American Dust Bowl by Don Brown ISBN 978-1328740878. Growing up, I would have called this book a comic book, but the new genre of graphic novels has emerged. The importance of soil and soil conservation is addressed in this book! (grades 4-10)
Illinois History: A Reader Edited by Mark Hubbard ISBN 978-0252083648. As Illinois celebrates the bicentennial, this is a unique look at Illinois! Collected from the Journal of the Illinois State Historical Society, take a close look at your home state! (grades 9-adult)
Pigs, Pork and the Heartland Hog by Cynthia Clampitt ISBN 978-1538110744. Join food historian Cynthia Clampitt as she tells the story of pork in the U.S. diet and marketplace. Like her book Midwest Maize, we are certain you will learn more about this Illinois commodity! (adult)
COMING SOON–these books are so good you won’t want to miss them!
George Washington Carver for Kids: His Life and Discoveries with 21 Activities by Peggy Thomas ISBN 978-0915864003. Peggy Thomas introduces us to Carver, his work and sample activities. Coming January 8, 2019.
Full of Beans: Henry Ford Grows a Car by Peggy Thomas ISBN 978-1629795390. How can you miss with one of our favorite authors (Thomas) and an Illinois crop (soybeans)! Coming January 2019.
Right This Very Minute: A table to farm book about food and farming by Lisl Detlefsen ISBN 978-1948898003. Coming February 5, 2019. From the new publisher Feeding Minds Press, join author and farmer Lisl Detlefsen telling the tale of how your food got to the table!
Popcorn Country: The Story of America’s Favorite Snack By Cris Peterson ISBN 978-1629798929. An AITC favorite author Cris Peterson takes on the official snack food of Illinois! How can you go wrong? Coming April 16, 2019.
Be sure to check out our website www.agintheclassroom.org for ways to link these books with some of your favorite activities.
By Kevin Daugherty
Daugherty is the Director of the Illinois Center for Agricultural Engagement at the Illinois Farm Bureau. He is currently reading The Circuit by Francisco Jimenez.
