The Father of Our…Farming?!

Farmer George Plants a Nation by Peggy Thomas, illustrated by Layne Johnson; published by Boyds Mills Press, Honesdale, PA; 2008.

This biography of the first President focuses on his life as a farmer rather than his years as our nation’s leader, although I noticed there were parallels between the lessons he learned from farming and his role as leader of the country.  The gorgeous oil paintings give life to the words, however, this is definitely a book for upper elementary aged children.

I think it would be remarkable to pair this book with a virtual visit to Mount Vernon online (www.mountvernon.org) either as an informal “field trip” at the public library or in a school setting.  Indeed, this book is recommended by NSTA (National Science Teachers Association) for collaborative teaching between science and social studies teachers; add this to a pathfinder!!!

Selected as 2008 Best Book by School Library Journal.