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The Farmer
The farmer is a gentle, hardworking man who loves his animals and tends his fields with strong, caring hands. When a series of disasters destroys his crops, he is forced to sell some of his cherished animals to survive until the next planting. He passionately hopes he will be able to buy back his four-legged friends after the next harvest. The illustrations are richly detailed and filled with life and emotion. Children will delight in discovering the tiny details hidden in the illustrations and finding Squeakers the Mouse in each one. This is a story of hardship and loss, but it highlights growth, joy, friendship, and forgiveness.
64 pages, Hardcover
First published August 1, 1999
About the author
Mark Ludy
22 books25 followers Mark Ludy is an author, illustrator, and speaker. His first book, The Farmer, was a finalist for the children's book of the year and is a Recommended Read for Scholastic's Reading Counts Program. He lives in Windsor, Colorado.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
November 11, 2021
I purchased this book just as it was published many years ago. A friend of mine knew the author personally. Mark Ludy lives in Longmont, Colorado just miles down the road from where I live. The main character, the farmer, reminded me so much of my dad that I could not resist. My dad knows well the life of a farmer. He grew up on a farm in Nebraska, and now farms for himself on the eastern plains of Colorado. I found this lovely, colorfully illustrated book a realistic picture of the life my dad loves.
Mark Ludy shows the reader the connection a farmer has to his land and his animals. Each animal is a part of the farmer; each furrowed row a product of passion and labor, and hope. Ludy shows the growing season for all its hard work and ideal, and the all too present reality that one simple lightning strike or whirlwind can destroy not only a crop, but an entire year of existence for a farmer. The farmer in this book gives me a sense of place and belonging. My own father spent many night praying in gratefulness, though his own livelihood had been wiped out by five minutes of hail. In the midst of the tornado, Ludy paints the colors dark and foreboding, except the colors of the farmer and his animals. These figures remain bright. Anyone who has lived on a farm sees how the juxtaposition of these two palettes can exist at the same moment. The contrast of the grays of a bleak winter and the brights of a new spring drive the author's point home. Ludy makes the reader ache for good news, exactly the same way a farmer longs for a good harvest.
The Farmer contains one more, very authentic representation of rural spaces. The farmer is a man of faith. He falls to his knees in prayer in the midst of the soil he loves, and closes his day, weary but thankful for the land and its promises. In my experience, this faith, hope and charity is a true mark of the community found in rural spaces. Every farmer helps his neighbor out in the midst of tragedy, knowing any one of them is one drought away from the same circumstance. I love this farmer and all he represents; just as I love my own overall-wearing, farm-tending dad.
Mark Ludy shows the reader the connection a farmer has to his land and his animals. Each animal is a part of the farmer; each furrowed row a product of passion and labor, and hope. Ludy shows the growing season for all its hard work and ideal, and the all too present reality that one simple lightning strike or whirlwind can destroy not only a crop, but an entire year of existence for a farmer. The farmer in this book gives me a sense of place and belonging. My own father spent many night praying in gratefulness, though his own livelihood had been wiped out by five minutes of hail. In the midst of the tornado, Ludy paints the colors dark and foreboding, except the colors of the farmer and his animals. These figures remain bright. Anyone who has lived on a farm sees how the juxtaposition of these two palettes can exist at the same moment. The contrast of the grays of a bleak winter and the brights of a new spring drive the author's point home. Ludy makes the reader ache for good news, exactly the same way a farmer longs for a good harvest.
The Farmer contains one more, very authentic representation of rural spaces. The farmer is a man of faith. He falls to his knees in prayer in the midst of the soil he loves, and closes his day, weary but thankful for the land and its promises. In my experience, this faith, hope and charity is a true mark of the community found in rural spaces. Every farmer helps his neighbor out in the midst of tragedy, knowing any one of them is one drought away from the same circumstance. I love this farmer and all he represents; just as I love my own overall-wearing, farm-tending dad.
January 25, 2018
From the first page to the last- and even after (specifically the truly neat inside jacket photo of The Farmer "standing" next to his creator, Mark Ludy, in a scenic Colorado meadow)- this children's book is a work of art in both text and illustrations. I found it interesting to learn that Ludy actually created all of the artwork before writing any text at all, originally intending it to be a stand-alone picture book. The text was added just before the book went to print. I think both aspects of creation make this a heartwarming tale, and I love that the text was added. This gives all readers a greater sense of the depth of faith and character of the farmer, even though his expressions in the illustrations serve this purpose well, too. I loved the warmth and kindness so present in the smile and instrinsic character of the farmer, and his values, perseverance, God-trusting, immense faith, and gentleness are all such admirable qualities. His character qualities speak for themselves and teach all readers the power of patience, prayer, and being truly kind. From his bible on his night stand to the way he remains prayerful and hopeful, the farmer is a role model for children reading this story and all readers.
In relation to young readers, I think the farmer as an individual is a figure of kindliness that will give a feeling of comfort to children. Aside from the more obvious lessons and morals in this story, the relationship the farmer has with his farm animals and how he treasures each one of them is a factor that children will certainly take notice of, as well.
In relation to young readers, I think the farmer as an individual is a figure of kindliness that will give a feeling of comfort to children. Aside from the more obvious lessons and morals in this story, the relationship the farmer has with his farm animals and how he treasures each one of them is a factor that children will certainly take notice of, as well.
June 6, 2022
A jolly farmer faces both the bounty and wrath of nature--and prays to God in good times and bad--in this picture book about faith and perseverance. A rotund farmer with a fluffy white beard works hard tending his animals and crops, only to have his endeavors wiped out first by a tornado, then by a devastating fire set by neighbor boys. He patiently rebuilds each time, appreciating even the smallest signs of growth and recovery. And even in his hardship, the farmer does not forget the ill-behaved neighbors in their time of need. Ludy embodies his farmer with the traits of such biblical figures as Job and Noah while emphasizing prayer as a constant in the farmer's life.
January 7, 2018
This is an incredibly sweet story about the power of perseverance, resilience, and kindness in the face of adversity. My two and a half year old requests it multiple times a day. The main character is generous and hard-working and the message gives us a lot to talk about. Mira also loves the illustrations of the farm setting.
April 22, 2022
Realistic Fiction
2nd-3rd
This is a story about a farmer and his daily tasks that he has on his farm. I really liked the realism and creativity that went into this book. It is a great book to teach kids different career paths and the things that farmers have to do. I enjoyed reading it.
2nd-3rd
This is a story about a farmer and his daily tasks that he has on his farm. I really liked the realism and creativity that went into this book. It is a great book to teach kids different career paths and the things that farmers have to do. I enjoyed reading it.
December 28, 2022
I’m always amazed at how much my grandchildren understand this simple farmer and his humility with tribulations and his ability to thank God in all situations and circumstances and still be kind to those around him.
August 8, 2019
i dont like the book
January 7, 2020
I love this book,I grew up with my mom reading it to me every night when I was a baby and a young child.
June 1, 2021
Kindness wins the day.
March 3, 2023
I recently became a Mark Ludy fan. I love his books ....AND sharing them with others.
February 28, 2024
An incredibly beautiful story and message of kindness and being a good neighbor and the illustrations are exquisite! Everyone should read this most charming book.
August 23, 2026
Very nostalgic for me.
December 30, 2013
The Farmer
Written and illustrated by Mark Ludy
from the dust jacket:
The Farmer is a tale of patience, perseverance and faith. The story's powerful message focuses on the values that build character.
The Farmer is a gentl, hard-working man who loves his animals and tends his fields with strong caring hands. When a series of disasters destory his crops, he is forced to sell some of his cherished animals to survive until the next planting. He passionately hopes he will be able to buy back his four-legged friends after the next harvest.
Published in 1999 I came across this wonderful book a couple of years ago with no expectations. There is a roundish farmer reminiscent of Santa Clause standing with five of his loving animals on the cover. The illustrations seems to be pen and ink combined with digital effects and give every picture has a soft, flowing air brushed feel.
The story begins with the Farmer's typical day. His love of his life drenches every task. The word's have a strong story teller voice, perfect for Mom or Dad to read to their child while snuggled in a chair or propt up on pillows in bed. The writing doesn't ask a lot of the reader. No funny voices or accents are needed, no extra parental explanation about what the story means or what the illustrations convey. The story engages the reader with simple directness, noting even that there is a the little mouse, Squeekers, hidden in each frame. At the end of the day the farmer says a prayer on his knees before going to bed, and even the younger children will be aware that the farmer is happy and grateful for his simple life. Without being preachy, the book continues that theme of gratefulness, adding to it other character traits such as patience, perseverance, forgiveness, and mercy. The actions of the Farmer speak loudly, and open up great opportunities for later discussion, but the story wastes no time with unnecessary extras leaving the words to speak clearer to the listeners. There is nothing cluttered or muddled about the plot, which makes it great for reading out loud.
The farmer prays each day and reads a thick book that looks a lot like a bible. There is a scene where the farmer reminds me a famous photograph titled “Grace,” by Eric Enstrom. But no religion or faith is ever specifically sited. Christians will see the story as a great example of faith and character, but the morality of the tale will also can also appeal to others who believe choosing a positive outlook will always bring a positive outcome.
Written and illustrated by Mark Ludy
from the dust jacket:
The Farmer is a tale of patience, perseverance and faith. The story's powerful message focuses on the values that build character.
The Farmer is a gentl, hard-working man who loves his animals and tends his fields with strong caring hands. When a series of disasters destory his crops, he is forced to sell some of his cherished animals to survive until the next planting. He passionately hopes he will be able to buy back his four-legged friends after the next harvest.
Published in 1999 I came across this wonderful book a couple of years ago with no expectations. There is a roundish farmer reminiscent of Santa Clause standing with five of his loving animals on the cover. The illustrations seems to be pen and ink combined with digital effects and give every picture has a soft, flowing air brushed feel.
The story begins with the Farmer's typical day. His love of his life drenches every task. The word's have a strong story teller voice, perfect for Mom or Dad to read to their child while snuggled in a chair or propt up on pillows in bed. The writing doesn't ask a lot of the reader. No funny voices or accents are needed, no extra parental explanation about what the story means or what the illustrations convey. The story engages the reader with simple directness, noting even that there is a the little mouse, Squeekers, hidden in each frame. At the end of the day the farmer says a prayer on his knees before going to bed, and even the younger children will be aware that the farmer is happy and grateful for his simple life. Without being preachy, the book continues that theme of gratefulness, adding to it other character traits such as patience, perseverance, forgiveness, and mercy. The actions of the Farmer speak loudly, and open up great opportunities for later discussion, but the story wastes no time with unnecessary extras leaving the words to speak clearer to the listeners. There is nothing cluttered or muddled about the plot, which makes it great for reading out loud.
The farmer prays each day and reads a thick book that looks a lot like a bible. There is a scene where the farmer reminds me a famous photograph titled “Grace,” by Eric Enstrom. But no religion or faith is ever specifically sited. Christians will see the story as a great example of faith and character, but the morality of the tale will also can also appeal to others who believe choosing a positive outlook will always bring a positive outcome.
April 9, 2013
This is a wonderfully illustrated story that touches on issues of loss, hardship, and most importantly friendship. The farmer loses his crops multiple times and he is forced to sell his beloved animals to the neighbors. A tornado and a fire ruin his crops, but this farmer perseveres. His crops eventually grow and mature. His neighbors are struck with a fire and lose their crops. The farmer helps them put it out and even gives them some of his harvest. He has done truly everything he can to help them and in return they give him back his sold animals.
This story would be excellent in a classroom because of the moral it teaches. Even when things threaten your success, you must keep pressing on. The morals of friendship are also really powerful and it teaches children about helping friends and neighbors in need.
I adore this book and I am glad that I have it in my personal library.
This story would be excellent in a classroom because of the moral it teaches. Even when things threaten your success, you must keep pressing on. The morals of friendship are also really powerful and it teaches children about helping friends and neighbors in need.
I adore this book and I am glad that I have it in my personal library.
October 19, 2008
Triumphs and tragedies, joy and passion are adeptly captured in the illustrations and text of this heart-warming tale of what it takes to be a farmer. The farmer has respect and love for the land, the animals, and God's bounty. When a series of untimely disasters threaten his very way of life, his perseverance shines through...even in the face of unspeakable sorrow. What qualities make a true farmer? Compassion for his fellow neighbor, when the neighbor shows none; patience and faith for an abundant harvest, when conditions are uncertain; and love for animal-kind, when they help to sustain him through the toughest of times. An uplifting tale of emotions brilliantly illustrated with complex, yet simple pictures. A treasure; one of those books that can be read on so many levels.
December 8, 2014
This book is another one of my favorites by Mark Ludy, and this book is about a farmer and his farm animals. This farmer though seems to have terrible luck with his crops because every year something goes wrong and is forced to sell one of his farm animals to replace the damages done to the crops. Although this farmer has terrible luck nothing gets him down from replanting his crops for the following year. Eventually his neighbor’s farm burns down and the farmer helps them put out the fire; something they never did for him, and when the farmer returned to his land he had a full garden. He was kind enough to share it with his neighbors who lost everything in the fire.
November 26, 2017
Appropriate grade level: pre k
Summary: This book is about a farmer who cares for his animals and land. Bad things continue to happen to the farmer and his land. The farmer shows his caring, compassionate side when he helps his neighbors in need who have been rude to him.
Review: This book is a great book to read to students from the city who don't understand farming. It also has great images for students to look at and give them ideas for their own illustrations. The farmer helping his neighbors shows his compassion in a way that students will be able to understand.
In-Class Uses: read aloud, ideas for illustrations, teaching students about farming
Summary: This book is about a farmer who cares for his animals and land. Bad things continue to happen to the farmer and his land. The farmer shows his caring, compassionate side when he helps his neighbors in need who have been rude to him.
Review: This book is a great book to read to students from the city who don't understand farming. It also has great images for students to look at and give them ideas for their own illustrations. The farmer helping his neighbors shows his compassion in a way that students will be able to understand.
In-Class Uses: read aloud, ideas for illustrations, teaching students about farming
Read
April 23, 2019Appropriate grade level: pre k
Summary: This book is about a farmer who cares for his animals and land. Bad things continue to happen to the farmer and his land. The farmer shows his caring, compassionate side when he helps his neighbors in need who have been rude to him.
Review: This book is a great book to read to students from the city who don't understand farming. It also has great images for students to look at and give them ideas for their own illustrations. The farmer helping his neighbors shows his compassion in a way that students will be able to understand.
In-Class Uses: read aloud, ideas for illustrations, teaching students about farming
Summary: This book is about a farmer who cares for his animals and land. Bad things continue to happen to the farmer and his land. The farmer shows his caring, compassionate side when he helps his neighbors in need who have been rude to him.
Review: This book is a great book to read to students from the city who don't understand farming. It also has great images for students to look at and give them ideas for their own illustrations. The farmer helping his neighbors shows his compassion in a way that students will be able to understand.
In-Class Uses: read aloud, ideas for illustrations, teaching students about farming
February 17, 2009
This is probably one of my favorite books on my daughters shelf. The artwork is beautiful and the subject matter is timeless. Every time we read this I cry (in a good way)...this book just does that to me. I think everyone should read this one, not just kids.
July 25, 2009
My kids and I would always tear-up when we read this sweet children's book, I guess we can relate all to well to "the farmer" and his many hardships. Yet the farmer shows the a deep faith, tenacity and kindness to his neighbors. An endearing book.
November 24, 2012
This story has a great message about being thankful for what you have! The farmer endures many trials over the years but he remains a diligent worker and tries to stay positive, his good nature brings good fortune! Beautifully illustrated and well written, I highly recommend it!
July 27, 2013
One of my favorite picture books. The Farmer is an excellent example of what it means to be "a good neighbor." And it also makes clear how difficult it can be to bring in the harvest.Beautiful pictures.
August 4, 2009
Good story.
September 20, 2011
Cute book! Illustrations are awesome!
March 24, 2013
great kids book! great for adults too! he hides a little mouse named Squeakers in every one of his drawings! This is a great story about trusting God through hardship and loving your enemies.
December 4, 2014
This little gem has become one of those books that will always have a place on the bookshelf in our family's library. We adore this book!
March 7, 2016
There was something about this one that just rubbed me the wrong way...
I am not quite sure exactly what turned me off this story, but overall I did not enjoy it.
I am not quite sure exactly what turned me off this story, but overall I did not enjoy it.
Read
December 15, 2018Appropriate grade level- prek-k
A farmer who cares for his animals after a disaster strikes and his animals are taken away.
A farmer who cares for his animals after a disaster strikes and his animals are taken away.
March 25, 2016
The illustrations are incredible and the story is all about giving. Amazing little picture book.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews