Hens are smart, savvy, and like to cuddle, as Aaron describes in this
picture book about his relationship with his best friend, a Rhode Island
Red hen he names Margaret.
Award-winning artist Amelia Hansen's delightful illustrations and author
Sandy De Lisle's charming text engage young readers with the full range
of responsibilities and joys of raising backyard hens. Aaron tells the
story of how his family interacts with their six adopted hens, not just
in chores like keeping the chicken coop clean, but playing with, petting
the hens, and tucking them in at night. When their mother bakes a
birthday cake for his brother, Aaron makes sure that the eggs come from
Margaret.
Young readers learn that hens recognize people they've met, can tell
time and solve problems, as well as learning that hens require ongoing
care after they stop laying eggs. The final page of the book lists
additional resources for adults.
Sandy De Lisle is making her debut as a children's picture book
author. Sandy has worked as a public school teacher and currently as
senior manager of content development for the American Society for the
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).
Amelia Hansen is the award-winning illustrator of It's Raining Cats
and Cats!, Are You Ready for Me?, It's Raining Pups and Dogs and
At the Dog Park with Sam and Lucy, all Gryphon Press titles, as well
as nineteen other books exploring the connections between people,
animals, and the earth.
