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In Arizona rain is a blessing. . . unless you have some energized kids.

Whether stuck inside on the weekends or during recess, having some awesome books on hand to keep kids entertained is always a good idea.  It is true, you can pick up a book that is purely entertaining, I’m sure they have several Frozen books lying around, but why not take the opportunity to sneak in a few educational facts as well?

Here are my top picks for fun and educational books about agriculture.

The Apple Orchard Riddle

In this playful and humorous story, the students learn a lot about apples and apple orchards—including how apples are harvested, how cider is made, and what the different varieties of apples are—while trying to solve a riddle. (Shhh… there is a secret message about respecting others’ unique characteristics/an anti-bullying message in there as well!)

End the story with a fun snack of apples and nut butter! Or another apple snack.

The Beeman

Grandpa is the beekeeper in town and his young grandson goes with him to learn about bees and how honey is collected for use. The reader learns facts about bee colonies, honey production, and recipes. There is a fact filled section at the end for adults to also learn more about the insect.

Maybe mix up some honey banana pops for a treat afterwards!

How did that get in my Lunchbox?

The best part of a young child’s school day is often opening a lunchbox and diving in. But how did all that delicious food get there? Who made the bread for the sandwich? What about the cheese inside? Who plucked the fruit? And where did the chocolate in that yummy chocolate chip cookie get its start? From planting wheat to mixing flour into dough, climbing trees to machine-squeezing fruit, picking cocoa pods to stirring a vat of melted bliss, here is a clear, engaging look at the steps involved in producing some common foods. Healthy tips and a peek at basic food groups complete the menu.

Play the My American Farm game Load the Lunchbox as a fun follow up!

The American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture constantly reviews children’s books to find the ones with the best content. If you, or your teacher friends are looking for some books to include on their shelves check out all of our recommended publications here. You can search by grade level and agricultural topic! Or if you know of a good book email us at foundation@fb.org.

You don’t have to wait for rain!  Here are some ideas to help start reading now!

• Start book circles in your library
• Add reading time in a classroom (DEAR – drop everything and read)
• Start a book before bedtime ritual

No matter how or why you start reading, try to make the most out of it! For more questions about the Foundation or our educational resources visit www.agfoundation.org.

Julia Recko is the Assistant Director of the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture, a nonprofit organization with a mission to educate about agriculture.