Review by HouseOfAtticus -- Farmer Beau's Farm

[HouseOfAtticus]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Farmer Beau's Farm" by Kathleen Geiger.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Farmer Beau’s Farm begins with Farmer Beau and his wife Bamma sitting on their patio. Suddenly, they notice five kittens playing around near their garage. The couple decides to take care of them, but four leave for the countryside. The last one who stays is named Kailey by Beau and Bamma. They build a beautiful home for Kailey. Later, Kailey comes across a bunny and they become friends. The couple welcome the bunny into their home. One day, Kailey and Sammy (the bunny), overhear the couple talking about a new animal, Malissa. They begin to wonder who this animal could possibly be. The two begin judging this new animal when he comes to their home. Will they finally become friends?

The two themes that have been heavily explored in this book are bullying and discrimination. Bullying has become a serious issue with children, and this book teaches a lesson to children about the importance of respect as well as the futility of bullying. However, the issue that intrigued me was the exploration of discrimination as a theme in this book.

When we think of children’s books, discrimination as a theme is certainly not the first one that springs to mind. However, the author has elegantly addressed this issue. Kailey and Sammy find it hard to accept the new animal just because he looks different from them. However, when they see tears in her eyes, they learn that everyone is the same and has feelings regardless of how different they look. The peripheral and related theme of diversity as an important aspect of our society has also been addressed in this book. The animals learn how to accept each other despite the differences in their appearance. A beautiful friendship finally blossoms in the book.

Another thing I found very interesting is how the author delineates the idea of compassion in the story. The couple is always welcoming different animals to their home. It is a lesson for kids as well as adults about how we must show compassion to others, even in the face of diversity, or perhaps, especially in that case. The couple personifies love and tolerance and can be great role models for the reader.

I felt that this story was a beautiful read. The unique narrative coupled with the wonderful illustrations captivate the reader’s mind. My rating for Farmer Beau’s Farm is 4 out of 4 stars. While this book is primarily for kids, everyone could benefit from reading it.
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Farmer Beau's Farm
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[GPM]

It is a metaphor for a tale about acceptance, the dangers of prejudice, open minds and generosity of spirit. A positive review!