Life on a Pig Farm (Life on a Farm)

Grade 2-5-In this photo-essay, young Alisha Eberly describes her family's 4-H project raising pigs on their farm in Dallastown, PA. Beginning with a simple explanation of the role of a boar in breeding a sow in heat, she describes the birth process and discusses the family's role: "We need to know ahead of time when the piglets are going to be born, so we'll be ready to care for them right away." That care includes cleaning the lively piglets after birth-as many as 18 in a litter-warming them, clipping their needle teeth, giving them iron shots, and notching their ears. Each procedure is described in a matter-of-fact manner and illustrated with a large photograph. Throughout, Alisha stresses the team effort her family makes to care for them. She doesn't shy away from stating that the ultimate purpose of raising pigs is to sell them as food. The final section of the book describes the process of showing pigs at a fair. Although few readers will have this child's experiences, all can appreciate her pride in winning ribbons and awards. Winston's full-color photographs are consistently clear and appealing while illustrating the author's points.
Lee Bock, Glenbrook Elementary School, Pulaski, WI
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Gr. 3^-5. Alisha, the oldest of three sisters who live on Maple Lane Farm, narrates this interesting photo-essay about the day-to-day activities involved in raising pigs. The events surrounding the birth of a litter of piglets is the highlight, with lots of great pictures of the newborn and a careful description of how the babies are cared for in the moments and weeks after birth. Most of the remaining text follows the girls as they do the seemingly endless chores associated with raising pigs and still find time for play. Color photographs contributed by David Winston capture the spirit and dedication of the three remarkable youngsters, whose hard work and willingness to accept responsibility will gain the admiration of readers. Because the family's involvement in pig farming began as a 4-H project for Alisha, Wolfman concludes with a page of information on the worthwhile organization. Glossary. Lauren Peterson