Ma, I'm a Farmer

Martha Lamon is a freelance writer and researcher based in Huntsville,
Ontario.

Known to many for his witty illustrations of numerous Robert Munsch
books, Michael Martchenko has illustrated more than 30 books for
children since 1980. In Ma, I’m a Farmer, he demonstrates a comparable
talent for writing.

Tired of his job and city life, Fred packs up and moves to his newly
purchased farm. But he had no idea of the immense work involved in farm
life. With the help of his neighbour’s grandson and his own computer
know-how, Fred automates the farm. Unfortunately, the excess electricity
needed to operate all the gadgets he has created leads to a country-wide
blackout. Fred must become even more resourceful after he is cut off
from the power supply for violating the Hydro Electric Do Not Be a Power
Piggy Act. The books ends when Fred, unaware that the farm is (yet
again) teetering on the brink of electrical disaster, tips the balance
by plugging in the kettle to make tea for his mom.

Martchenko’s text is amusing and the human characters are engaging
and appealing. The farm animals are brought to life through his witty
and detailed illustrations. Highly recommended.