Why Did the Farmer Cross the Road?

PreS-Gr 2—James puts a new spin on the timeless joke in her first picture book. In this quirky tale, Donkey awakens the farmer, alerting him that the pigs have left the farm. The farmer states, "That's not possible" and goes back to sleep. Meanwhile, the pigs are walking through town, looking for a snack. Now the cows and sheep are following. Also, the chickens. Finally, the farmer starts listening to Donkey, and they go in search of the farm animals, who are all on their way to the country fair. Outlined in black, the illustrations are bright, cheerful, and cartoonish. The text is simple, and the dialogue between the farmer and the donkey is color-coded to keep the speakers straight. The animals' conversations appear in word bubbles. The expressions on their faces are amusing, and readers will laugh at the antics that ensue.