It’s the farmer’s birthday! He is celebrating it with a cheerful mood and by feeding his livestock. The barnyard animals show their appreciation by giving him milk, wool, and anything else the farmer needs.
The Jolly Barnyard was not one of my favorite books. It felt disconnected with no real purpose. I was expecting the animals to gather together and surprise their farmer at the end of the book. Instead, the farmer enjoyed his birthday cake with his wife alone in the farmhouse.
Although, for a child who loves animals (especially barnyard animals) this book is an ideal and colorful read. It engages the children and helps them to recognize compassion; not only for the animals but the farmer, as well!
Stacy N. Elliott 