10+ Best Farming Books for 8-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect way to introduce the wonders of agriculture to your little one? Look no further! Our curated selection of farming books for 8-year-olds is packed with engaging stories and fascinating facts that will captivate your child’s imagination. Whether they're budding farmers or curious about where their food comes from, these books are sure to sow seeds of knowledge and fun. Keep reading to discover our top picks in farming books for 8-year-olds!

Fun Farming Books for 8-Year-Olds

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Classic
  • Synopsis: This beloved tale follows a young pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a wise spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered, Charlotte crafts clever messages in her web to save him.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming story that teaches about friendship, loyalty, and the cycle of life, all presented in a way that resonates with young readers.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young readers who enjoy touching stories about friendships.

• The Year At Maple Hill Farm by Alice and Martin Provensen
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book describes the activities on a farm throughout the year, detailing the lives of different animals and the changes in the seasons.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a detailed, month-by-month look at farm life, helping children understand the seasonal cycles and animal care.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are curious about nature and farming.

• Farm Anatomy: The Curious Parts and Pieces of Country Life by Julia Rothman
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Educational
  • Synopsis: An illustrated guide to the parts and pieces of rural living, covering everything from farm animals and their functions to the types of barns and tractors.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's visually engaging and packed with fun facts, making learning about farm life enjoyable and easy to understand.
  • Perfect for: Young readers with a budding interest in how things work and a love for detailed illustrations.

• Before We Eat: From Farm to Table by Pat Brisson, illustrated by Mary Azarian
  • Genre(s): Children's Non-Fiction, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book explores the journey of food from farms to the family table, highlighting the roles of various people involved in food production.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a simple yet informative explanation of food sourcing, fostering an appreciation for agriculture from a young age.
  • Perfect for: Children who are curious about where their meals come from and the process behind food production.

• John Deere, That's Who! by Tracy Nelson Maurer, illustrated by Tim Zeltner
  • Genre(s): Biography, Children's Non-Fiction
  • Synopsis: This book tells the story of John Deere and how he revolutionized farming with his steel plow invention.
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces young readers to historical innovation and the impact one person can have on a whole industry, all through engaging storytelling and vibrant illustrations.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young inventors and history buffs who enjoy learning about significant figures and their contributions to society.

Educational Farming Books for 8-Year-Olds

• From Seed to Plant by Gail Gibbons
  • Genre(s): Children's Non-Fiction, Science
  • Synopsis: This book explores the life cycle of plants, explaining how seeds are formed, how they grow, and what they need to thrive.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Botany, life cycles, environmental awareness
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides clear, concise information complemented by detailed illustrations that help children understand the basics of plant science.
  • Perfect for: Young gardeners and science enthusiasts interested in learning how things grow.

• Farming by Gail Gibbons
  • Genre(s): Children's Non-Fiction, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book provides an overview of farm operations and machinery, explaining different farming techniques and the types of crops and animals found on farms.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Agricultural knowledge, mechanical understanding, animal husbandry
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a comprehensive introduction to farming that covers a wide range of topics in a kid-friendly manner.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are curious about how farms operate and the technology behind farming.

• Up, Down, and Around by Katherine Ayres, illustrated by Nadine Bernard Westcott
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Educational
  • Synopsis: This playful book takes young readers on a journey through a vegetable garden, exploring the growth patterns of different plants.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of plant growth, directional concepts, vocabulary
  • Why we recommend this book: Its rhythmic, repetitive text and lively illustrations make learning about vegetable growth engaging and fun.
  • Perfect for: Preschoolers and early elementary students beginning to explore the natural world.

• A Seed Is Sleepy by Dianna Hutts Aston, illustrated by Sylvia Long
  • Genre(s): Children's Non-Fiction, Science
  • Synopsis: This beautifully illustrated book introduces children to the life of a seed, detailing its growth process and the various types of seeds.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Botany, environmental science, observational skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines poetic language with scientifically accurate information, making it both educational and enchanting.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who appreciate nature and are fascinated by the small wonders of the world.

• The Vegetables We Eat by Gail Gibbons
  • Genre(s): Children's Non-Fiction, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book categorizes vegetables into eight types and explains how they grow and why they are important to eat.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Nutrition, plant science, categorization skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an informative resource that encourages healthy eating habits by educating children about vegetables and their benefits.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are learning about healthy eating and interested in where their food comes from.

Challenging Farming Books for 8-Year-Olds

• The Omnivore's Dilemma: Young Readers Edition by Michael Pollan, adapted by Richie Chevat
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Science, Health
  • Synopsis: This adaptation of Michael Pollan’s famous work explores the complexities of the food chains that sustain us, from industrial to organic to foraged food sources.
  • Why this book is challenging: It tackles complex topics such as sustainability, ethics, and the environmental impacts of our food choices, presented in a manner that challenges young readers to think critically.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages deep thinking about the consequences of our eating habits and the importance of making informed choices about our food.
  • Perfect for: Young environmentalists and critical thinkers interested in understanding more about where their food comes from and its impact on the world.

• Seedfolks by Paul Fleischman, illustrated by Judy Pedersen
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Multicultural
  • Synopsis: This story revolves around a vacant lot in Cleveland, Ohio, which transforms into a vibrant community garden through the collective efforts of the neighborhood’s diverse inhabitants.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents narratives from multiple perspectives, each with its own unique voice and background, providing a rich, layered understanding of community and culture.
  • Why we recommend this book: It showcases the power of individual and collective action in creating change and highlights the importance of community and diversity.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories about community building and those interested in social change through grassroots movements.

• Weslandia by Paul Fleischman, illustrated by Kevin Hawkes
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: This imaginative tale follows Wesley, a young boy who creates his own civilization using a mysterious plant he cultivates in his backyard.
  • Why this book is challenging: It incorporates advanced vocabulary and concepts related to botany, anthropology, and ecology, woven into a captivating narrative.
  • Why we recommend this book: It promotes creativity and innovation, encouraging readers to think outside the box and explore their interests deeply.
  • Perfect for: Creative thinkers and young innovators who dream of doing something unique and impactful.

• The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fiction
  • Synopsis: This classic novel tells the story of Mary Lennox, who discovers a neglected garden and, through her restoration of it, undergoes a personal transformation and heals from her past traumas.
  • Why this book is challenging: The text features rich, descriptive language and explores deep themes of loss, healing, and friendship.
  • Why we recommend this book: It illustrates the therapeutic power of nature and the growth that can come from care and compassion.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy emotional stories and those interested in the healing aspects of gardening and nature.

• Farmer Boy by Laura Ingalls Wilder
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Classic
  • Synopsis: This book, part of the "Little House" series, details the early life of Almanzo Wilder growing up on a farm in New York State in the 1860s, focusing on his daily chores, schooling, and adventures.
  • Why this book is challenging: It provides detailed descriptions of 19th-century farming practices and life, requiring readers to understand historical contexts and terminologies.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a glimpse into the hardworking nature of farm life in the past, promoting appreciation for history and perseverance.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history and the daily lives of children in the past.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to help your 8-year-old develop great reading habits while diving into the world of farming books, you're in the right place. Below are some fun and easy exercises designed just for kids. These activities will not only enhance their reading skills but also make the learning process enjoyable. Let's get started!

• Create a Reading Corner
  • What it is: Set up a special place at home dedicated to reading.
  • How it helps: Creates a comfortable and inviting environment that encourages regular reading.
  • Tips: Let your child personalize the space with their favorite cushions, posters, or plants.

• Book-Based Scavenger Hunt
  • What it is: Organize a scavenger hunt based on items or themes found in the farming books.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and makes reading interactive and fun.
  • Tips: Use simple items from around the house or garden that relate to the story.

• Storytelling Sessions
  • What it is: Have your child retell the story in their own words, either to you or to a group of friends.
  • How it helps: Improves memory and understanding of the book's content.
  • Tips: Encourage the use of props or drawings to make the retelling more engaging.

• Character Diary Entries
  • What it is: Write diary entries from the perspective of a character in the book.
  • How it helps: Develops empathy and deeper understanding of the characters.
  • Tips: Discuss the character’s feelings and decisions to give your child ideas for their entries.

• Read and Draw
  • What it is: Read a chapter together, then have your child draw a scene from what was read.
  • How it helps: Strengthens visualization skills and helps with recall.
  • Tips: Display their artwork somewhere visible to boost their confidence and interest in the story.

• Book Club for Kids
  • What it is: Start a small book club with a few of your child’s friends who also enjoy reading.
  • How it helps: Encourages social interaction and discussion about the books.
  • Tips: Keep the group small and manage regular meetings, perhaps once a week or every two weeks.

Implementing these exercises can greatly enhance your child's reading experience and make those farming books even more captivating. Remember, the key is consistency and making sure that reading is seen as a fun and rewarding activity. Happy reading!