Trina L. Hunner

What is organic farming and how is it different from other kinds of farming? Molly is a homeless cat that is wandering around. One gusty spring day, she hears some loud noises. “Whoosh! Creak…CRASH!” A gust of wind swings a gate open, and Molly wanders into an organic farm. When she is discovered, the farmers adopt her. All through the growing season, Molly, and youngsters who read this book or have it read to them, learn all about different aspects of organic farming, such as composting, beneficial bugs, companion planting, crop rotation, animal helpers, and community farmers’ markets. But what will happen to Molly when winter arrives with its cold weather and falling snowflakes?
Based on the true story of a little cat which, in 2005, showed up at the small Mountain Bounty Farm in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains near Nevada City in northern California, spent the spring and summer socializing with the farmers, and then was taken in for the winter by co-author and illustrator Trina L. Hunner who lived adjacent to the farm, this charming book introduces youngsters to the concept of organic farming which controls pests, diseases, and weeds naturally, and uses no artificial chemicals, fertilizers, or pesticides. The educational pages in the back give more information about the various elements of an organic farm displayed in the text by Hunner and Carol L. Malnor, explain the parts of a plant, discuss the seasonal nature of a plant’s life cycle, show how Molly used her five senses to explore the farm, and give additional ideas and resources related to the topic. It’s a great nature lesson all wrapped up in a fun package!… (meer)