The TTLG 2011 Picture Book Celebration: Book two hundred and fifteen

There are times when most of wish we could have a little peace and quiet. We don't want to share our space with anyone else, or we only want to share our space with certain people. In today's picture book you will meet some cows who have a great deal of difficulty keeping all the other farm animals out of the barn that they feel should be theirs and theirs alone.

Only Cows Allowed

Lynn Plourde

Illustrated by Rebecca Harrison Reed

Picture Book

For ages 5 to 7

Down East, 2011, 978-089272790-2

   A young man has bought a farm, and though he does not know much about farming or farm animals, he gets some cows to live in his barn. The cows love their new accommodation so much that they decide that they and they alone will live in the barn. Quickly they make a sign that reads “ONLY COWS ALLOWED!”

   When the chickens arrive, they are very annoyed to see the sign. They have every right to live in the barn if they want to. In an effort to produce milk - so that the cows will accept them - the chickens lay a prodigious number of eggs. The farmer is delighted and the chickens know that the cows will have to accept them now. The chickens make themselves at home and all is well until some more animals arrive. The cows are determined to keep them out of the barn, but will they be able to?

   Young readers are sure to be amused by this clever picture book. They will meet some very strong-minded cows who are determined to have their own way. The deliciously funny ending is sure to delight children who have a fondness for surprises.