Review: Old MacDonald Had a Farm (Little Board Books)
There’s something magical about cozying up with a picture book at the end of a busy day. Recently, as my toddler sat bouncing on my knee, demanding “just one more story,” I couldn’t help but reach for Old MacDonald Had a Farm (Little Board Books). I remember my own childhood with this classic tune, and I knew I had to share that joy with my little ones. The delightful illustrations by Ben Mantle perfectly set the tone for this farm adventure, and I was eager to see their reactions.
If you’re new to this timeless tale, Old MacDonald Had a Farm takes you on a charming journey alongside Old MacDonald as he visits his beloved animals. Each page turns into a playful chorus as we moo with cows, quack with ducks, and oink with pigs. The rhythmic repetition of the lyrics had my kids excitedly chiming in—our living room soon transformed into an impromptu barnyard, with giggles echoing along with the song.
What really caught my little ones’ attention were Mantle’s bright and engaging illustrations. Each animal was colorfully depicted, full of personality, and inviting us to explore the page together. My daughter couldn’t stop pointing at the lively chickens dancing about, squealing with delight as we made our own chicken sounds. Lastly, can we talk about the QR code for the sing-along? It was a game changer! We spent an entire afternoon pretending to be farm animals, singing along to the tune while swaying back and forth like we were at a concert.
As a mom, I cherish the moments where I can see their eyes widen with curiosity. My son, who’s typically the quieter of the two, was particularly enthralled by the goats on the page where Old MacDonald calls, "And on that farm he had a goat!" His face lit up, and he mimicked the goat’s bleat so enthusiastically that I couldn’t help but laugh. We shared so many sweet, silly moments!
In a world where we often find ourselves rushing from one activity to the next, this book provided a simple, heartwarming respite for our family. It’s perfect for children aged 1-5, especially those who adore animals and singing—though I imagine it would have a delightful effect on even the littlest listeners.
To end on a personal note, Old MacDonald Had a Farm is now firmly nestled on our family bookshelf. It serves not just as a story but as a reminder to pause and embrace the joy in everyday moments. So, whether you’re looking to spark some giggles, or you just need a sweet, interactive read that might transport your littles to a sunny farm, I wholeheartedly recommend slipping this book into your evening routine. It’s a new favorite for us—and I think it just might become yours too!