Three Hens and a Peacock - by Lester L Laminack (Hardcover)

About the Book

When life on the Tucker farm is disrupted by the arrival of a peacock, whose shrieking and strutting bring many welcome visitors, the hens complain that they are doing all of the work until the hound suggests a trade.

Book Synopsis

A hilarious read-aloud favorite about some foolish farm animals who decide to trade roles--and discover just how hard it is to do someone else's job, from award-winning author Lester L. Laminack and celebrated illustrator Henry Cole.

The Tuckers' farm is a peaceful place where everyone has a job and no one complains. That is, until a hapless peacock falls off the back of a passing truck and stirs things up. Soon, customers are flocking to the farm to see what all the fuss is about. But the hens don't like the newcomer getting attention while they do all the hard work. When a wise old hound sees the problem, he helps orchestrate a job swap.

What follows is the riotous tale of three hens who get in way over their feathered heads, and one very distressed peacock who just can't figure out how to lay an egg.

Lester L. Laminack has created a comical look at envy, finding your strength, and what happens when we underestimate the value of others' work. Henry Cole's delightful illustrations heighten the story's humor and will have readers of all ages laughing out loud.

Review Quotes

"Laminack's storytelling is brisk, and Cole's cartoon illustrations are vivid and comical"--Booklist

"What might have been an ordinary be-yourself story is enhanced by Laminack's (Snow Day!) surprisingly thoughtful storytelling. . . Laminack characterizes the hens with a fine ear for their Golden Girls outrage. . . the illustrations go for big guffaws and slapstick instead, and largely succeed. . . effectively keeping the book from feeling message-heavy."--Publishers Weekly

"Frenetically posing chickens will inspire giggles. . . Good farm fun."--Kirkus Reviews--Kirkus Reviews

"A delightful choice for schools and public libraries"--School Library Journal

About the Author

Lester L. Laminack is a specialist in children's literacy and professor emeritus at Western Carolina University. Laminack has written numerous books and articles for educators in addition to his picture books, and he is a sought-after speaker at professional meetings and reading associations nationwide. He lives in North Carolina.

Henry Cole has published almost 150 books for children, including those he has both written and illustrated, including Homer on the Case and The Somewhat True Adventures of Sammy Shine, and those he has illustrated, including bestsellers such as And Tango Makes Three and books by Julie Andrews Edwards and Harvey Fierstein. A former fourth grade science teacher who grew up on a farm, he is a popular presenter who dazzles audiences of all ages.