The Hundred-Year Barn Perfect Picture Book Friday

A poignant story about community, family, and the passage of time.

text copyright Patricia MacLachlan, 2019, illustrations copyright Kenard Pak, 2019, Harper Collins, 2019

This lovely picture book follows the life of a hundred-year-old barn, and the transformation of the family that tends to it. From the building's beginning--laying the foundation, building the frame, shingling the roof--a child tells the story of the origin of his family's barn. As years pass and the little boy grows, the barn ages, but through care and stewardship, the barn continues to thrive with every passing season. Stunning illustrations complement the tender language. This quiet and gorgeous picture book reminds readers to treasure ordinary moments, for it's often in those that special memories are made. 

Title:  THE HUNDRED-YEAR BARN

Author:  Patricia MacLachlan

Illustrator:  Kenard Pak

Publisher:  Harper Collins, 2019

Ages:  4-8

Themes: Family, Community, Change

Here are a few activities that align with the themes of this book:

• Take a field trip to a barn. What animals did you see? What did the barn smell like? What noises did you hear? Write a story or draw a picture about what you experienced in the barn.
• For more fun activities and information about barns, try this website!
• Conversation starters:  "Of all the animals that live in a barn, which one is your favorite? Why?" "What do you think life will be like, one hundred years from now. How will it be different? How will it be the same?" "When you are old, which memories do you think will be most special to you?"

Looking for more perfect picture books? Check out Susanna Leonard Hill's website!