Chaos at Cold Custard Farm

The creator of Truffles and Truffles Is Sick goes to the farm for this story. A day at Cold Custard Farm begins as usual: nine animals help out the humans, and Fred and Freda run the place in an orderly fashion. But, when Fred and Freda have to go into town, the animals get into trouble. The piglets take down the clean wash, and little Lol the Lamb accidentally makes the bees angry. The farmers return from town just in time and restore everyone's good spirits with gifts all 'round. Anholt's telling lacks power, and while the pictures are suitably chaotic, they are also so busy that the action is sometimes difficult to perceive. But, there are bright colors, odd perspectives and an exuberant playfulness to the art on each spread. The goodwill on Cold Custard Farm will spread to readers as well. Ages 4-7. (June)