Farming

Ray Doiron is an assistant professor in the Faculty of Education at the
University of Prince Edward Island.

These two titles are part of the Canada at Work series, which
incorporates many of the qualities of narrative to introduce young
children to the basic industries in Canada. Each book starts with a
Canadian family curious to learn more about the industry that supports
them. The focus moves to communities the industry has helped to sustain
and develop and then broadens to present a complete picture of all
aspects of the industry. Both texts are supported by watercolor
illustrations.

In Forestry, young Cameron and his uncle, a logger, lead us through an
exploration of the methods used to cut trees. They take us to a saw mill
and a pulp and paper mill, where we see how the logs become basic
building materials and pulp and paper. Although the controversial issues
surrounding logging are not dealt with overtly, there is a strong
environmental message woven throughout the text.

In Farming, we are introduced to Nick and Karin, cousins whose families
are involved in different types of farming. A year-round look at
vegetable and beef farming includes spring planting and fall harvesting,
as well as the summer cattle drive and fall roundup. The impact of
weather, crop and animal disease, and environmental issues are mentioned
as concerns of all farmers.

Primary-classroom teachers could use these books to introduce farm or
forestry themes. Recommended.