This early reader has one simple sentence per page spread using the pattern "I like (animal name)"; there are then two photographs per spread showing the animal named. The next page of the book will then use "I like (name of animal's young)" and show two photographs of the baby version of that animal. This book is very bare bones in that respect and would be good for those children who are really just beginning to read. The photographs are lovely and show a diverse group of children. ( )

In the past, I've sometimes disliked the I like to Read series because I felt the illustrations were lackluster, but I'm completely behind this delightful entry.

I've been really enjoying Rotner's books with photographs - I think she's a bit of a modern Tana Hoban (whose books I've been weeding because she's no longer popular). This easy reader was just perfect for our quasi-rural community.

Each page features a different farm animal and many also show kids. There are cats, cows, dogs, pigs, and chickens. There's also a picture of a tractor and farmyard at the end of the story. The text is simple variations on the title, "I like the piglet."

What I absolutely loved about this is that it showcases a wide range of diverse kids! Boys, girls, dark and light skin, Hispanic, African-American, and Indian. It's so rare to see kids of color shown in books about rural life.

Verdict: Farm animals, an emergent reading level, and a diverse cast of real kids. This is the perfect addition to your easy reader section and I'll be buying several copies!

ISBN: 9780823438334; Published 2017 by Holiday House; F&G provided at ALA 2017; Purchased for the library

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