Absolutely charming. A lovely story of a family creating their homestead. Lots of wonderful construction details, it reminds me a bit of the Richard Scarry book where the bunny’s house is built. ( )

Based on the author’s experience, this fictionalized picture book tells the story of a family building their house from the ground up while they live in a small trailer for a year and a half

Recommended by Lauren B. (and Henry)

"Today is moving day. We left our old house in the city and are moving to the country..."

A girl narrates this story of her family moving to the country and building a house from scratch, while they live in a "small home on wheels" in a field. The girl and her little brother help their parents as much as they're able, and meanwhile their mom grows and gives birth to a third child.

Seasons pass as the house frame goes up, with chimney, roof, siding, and windows; then plumbing, wiring, insulation, wallboard, painting, and light fixtures. At last there is a "moving party," and the family of five spends their first night in their new house.

Back matter: an Author's Note explains that the book is based on his parents' experience of buying a field and living in a small house on wheels while building a house for their family - which, in real life, took five years, during which time his parents had three children. Photographs are included.

See also: Tony's Hard Work Day; Skyscraper by Jorey Hurley ( )

A little girl explains the process of her parents who are building their own house. Lots of big machines for kids who love that. Shows the value of hard work. ( )

Great book! Watch how a family picks up and moves to the country to build a house themselves while living on site. Very educational and it's based on a true story of a family who did this. Nice illustrations as well.

4**** ( )