Pirates on the Farm

by Denette Fretz

'No one ever imagined that five swashbuckling pirates would settle in our proper little southern community. But they did.' When pirates move in next door, life on the farm is bound to get interesting. Will the unadventurous Sanders family be able to handle the pirates' bad manners, ghastly grub, and outrageous antics? Or will they learn the importance of loving one's neighbor and help the graceless pirates find their 'land legs'?

Genres: Picture Books, Pirates, Fiction, Childrens, Animals, Friendship

40 pages, Hardcover

First published August 20, 2013

About the author

Denette Fretz is the author of two critically acclaimed "love your neighbor" picture books— PIRATES ON THE FARM and CONRAD AND THE COWGIRL NEXT DOOR. Her third book, I WANT YOUR SMILE, CROCODILE will be released in April, 2018. Fretz also loves teaching elementary art and music in Southern Oregon.

Reviews

[April Sanders · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this book! It is the complete package. As a teacher, I am very picky about children's books. The book has to be entertaining, fun to look at, and it has to teach a message or be otherwise educational. This storyline -- pirates moving into a close-knit community and trying their hand at farming -- is instantly appealing. The colorful and silly pictures enhance the humor of the story. Best of all are the lessons in this book. The overarching lesson is to treat others as you would like to be treated, but this author goes a step further. Instead of talking down to the reader, she includes vocabulary that challenges and teaches the reader. The book includes a handy glossary at the end. Because of the vocabulary, I plan to use this book to not only talk about how to treat others, but I also plan on using this book as a jumping-off point for writing exercises. I highly recommend "Pirates on the Farm" and am looking forward to the other books in the "Next Door" series!

[Glenys Nellist · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who wouldn't want to read a book called Pirates on the Farm? Clever title, wonderful illustrations, a fun read and a little bible lesson at the end. my four year old grandson and I love it.

[Rose Rosetree · Rating 5 out of 5]

For this reader, which is the bigger stretch?

*1. Five pirates and their bird, Fido, move in next door.
(Joke, the bird isn't called Fido but Jolly Roger. Anyway...)

*2. The narrator is a girl who lives on a farm, a farm in the South.

Hmmm, I think the second aspect of the plot is a bigger stretch for me. This native New Yorker has been a city-and-suburbs dweller... for my whole life. Whether North, South, Midwest, or Westy-West, I've never once lived on a farm.

Besides, if you count high-tech skulduggery, I may well have met several digi-pirates without even knowing it. So I don't consider piracy that rare, these days.

But on to the story.

HUMOR ABOUNDS, SO DOES WIT

Denette Fretz does a brilliant job of writing this picture book.

Also Gene Barretta's illustrations are lively, engaging, fresh, and so much fun.

Every one of the family members consistently acts according to type, which makes the story both outrageous and comfortably predictable. Clearly, Dad is the hero.

The main thing I learned (or was reminded of) from this delightful book?

Farmers aren't the only ones who can learn, When you plant love, it grows.

[Clwseattle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pirates on the Farm is great fun and a story about pirates who decide to buy a farm. Their misconceptions of life on land and on the farm are hilarious and the illustrations even more so. The pirates are treated with skepticism and, ultimately, with kindness.

"Dad nailed down loose boards, patched a hole on the poop deck, and rescued a piglet from the crow’s nest chicken coop."

Pirates on the Farm is a wonderful book that teaches grace with the gentle touch of great humor.

5 Stars

[Brian Bohmueller · Rating 3 out of 5]

A light hearted children's book that presents s fine message to be welcoming of strangers woven with the not so fine and age old whitewashing of the cruelty of animal husbandry.

Still it might be a good book for parents and children to discuss what it means to have compassion for all conscious beings.

[Chrissy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Storytime Ideas: Pirates, Friendship, Kindness

Super-cute story about a group of pirates who move in next door and shocks everybody! Has a good message about accepting people and reaching out to those who are different.

[Kristina · Rating 5 out of 5]

My 3 kids and I enjoyed reading this book. I thought the book had a good message and it was nice to talk about that message when I was done reading. I would recommend this book to others!!

[Jo Oehrlein · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute story about pirates moving on to the next door farm and the chaos they bring to the area.

Both sides learn to accept each other.

[wildct2003 · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted to like this book more…just didn’t grab me.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very nice book about how love changes people more than bans and judgment. A group of pirates move in next door and don't quite have social skills... yet! Great one.

[Nora St Laurent · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the illustrations and the powerful message of this book. I’m thankful for the review copy of such a precious and fun story.

What does it mean when the bible says to love your neighbor as yourself? This author sets up a scenario everyone young and old can relate to. The story takes place in a small town where everyone knows your name, your business and how things are supposed to go. It shows how town’s people react to Pirates moving to their town with a strange way of talking, dressing and doing life. They couldn’t believe they were now their neighbors! This story will have children discover this scripture reference for the first time and parents will look at it in a new light.

The Book Blurb says, “Will they learn the importance of loving one’s neighbor and help the graceless pirates find their “land legs?”

This is an amusing and delightful picture book that will have children laugh as the towns people try to figure out these pirates and at how the Pirates try to fit in. I loved how this author and illustrator show how one family dared to love neighbors even though they were very different than themselves.

Five Pirates traded doubloons for dirt and bought a farm. They were inexperienced on how to work a farm. The Pirates watched others to get an idea on how things should go. But they were still clueless. The daughter tells of her families experience with these Pirates. I liked that. The child saw how their father was willing to lend a hand in showing these Pirates how things were done. The mother wanted nothing to do with the lot of them at first but she watch how her husband went out of his way to make them feel welcome. He didn’t judge them but loved them. Just because the Pirates were different it didn’t make them bad.

The pirates accepted the help and were very grateful for the help. So the Pirates invited the family to dinner. The family noticed they ate different things – but they had fun anyway. The child’s family invites the Pirates to a community event. They were just being themselves at this event. They didn’t know the rules of the community and they broke a few laws and were charged a fine they couldn’t pay.

The father searches his heart on what he should do to help and/or wonders if he should do anything at all about the situation. How would God have the farmer help? He wondered. Would the Pirates have to leave the village? WWJD?

The illustrations in the book help get the message across to young readers. There is so much to look at that will make them giggle and the parents grin.

So, if your child and/or grand child are fascinated with Jake the pirate cartoon on T.V. They will love this book. There are notes at the end for parents on how they can talk about what they just read with their kids. It’s a story recommended for ages 4-8. This is the first book in the Next Door Series; I can’t wait to read the rest. It has a great message we all could learn inside these colorful pages. It will also plant seeds of faith in the young and put a big smile on your face. It will soon become a family favorite. I highly recommend this humorous and heartwarming tale to kids and the young at heart.

Disclosure of Material Connection:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

Nora St.Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com

[Vera Godley · Rating 4 out of 5]

“No one ever imagined that five swashbuckling pirates would settle in our proper little southern community. But they did.”

About the book: When pirates move in next door, life on the farm is bound to get interesting. But will the unadventurous Sanders family be able to handle the pirates’ bad manners, ghastly grub, and outrageous antics? Or will they learn the importance of loving one’s neighbor and help the graceless pirates find their “land legs”?

Review: Author Denette Fretz has written a delightful story in the brand new “The Next Door Series” and it is illustrated with art that truly captures the characters spirit and the action of the story.

Pirates on the Farm tells the tale of sea faring pirates – and we all know that they are persons of shady character – moving next door to the Sanders family and bringing with them all their unsavory habits as they try to learn to live the life of farmers with no sea in sight.

The story is entertaining – well, that is putting it mildly because it is rip-roaring-shiver-me-timbers funny. But entertainment is a nice way of getting across to children (and those adults that read to them) a lesson in accepting and loving their neighbor.

Mom Sanders is suspicious, as are others in the community, and Pa Sanders goes over to help them unpack and move in. Some seem happy to have new, albeit different, neighbors and some are highly suspicious and wary.

Now in the back of the book, there is a section with “pirate speak” which is fun. There is also a parents’ page with discussion questions (always good because those kiddies always need a bit of guidance and have lots of questions) and a devotion.

I can see this as a great Christmas gift for that little boy in your life and it will be a great learning tool, too. So I'm thinking this is one that librarians, Moms, Dads, schools, Grandparents will all want to check out to have around for the kiddies in their lives. May be purchased at your favorite book supplier.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of Pirates on the Farm" from the BookSneeze blog review program on behalf of the publisher ZonderKidz in exchange for this review. Opinions expressed are solely my own and I received no compensation for this review.

[Callie · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Pirates on the Farm"



"Pirates on the Farm" is written by Denette Fretz, illustrated by Gene Barretta, and published by Zonderkidz. It was published on August 24, 2013, and is intended for children ages 4-8. It is in "The Next Door Series".



This is a very cute story about a proper southern family of farmers. They have new next door neighbors, a shipful of swaggering pirates who traded life on the high seas for farming, even though they have no expertise in the lifestyle. The story is told from a first-person viewpoint of the oldest child, a daughter, in the southern family. She has a little brother named Joey who is very enthusiastic about the new neighbors. The daughter herself does not quite know what to think of them; we read as she tells about her mother, father, and younger brother's reactions to the new farmers, as well as the effect on the town. Most of the people view the pirates negatively at first, but it all wraps up in a neat and tidy, if not easy to miss, package on loving thy neighbor. I say "easy to miss" because the story's main resolution is in the pictures, and not actual words.



Personally, I found the dialogue and pirates charming, however, I have read several books on pirates. For four to eight year olds, they would not understand many of the words, terms, or irony, of the story. At the back of the book, there is a glossary of pirate lingo, simplified into....worse pirate lingo. This is not a good book for children because of the lack of comprehension they will most likely have. However, if you're an adult, you'll find this book amusing, if you really want to resort to buying a children's book to amuse yourself.



Thank you to BookSneeze, as well as Zonderkidz, for providing me with a copy of this book to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review.

[Christian Fiction Addiction · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have young children, like I do, then get ready to read "Pirates on the Farm" over and over again...because that's what I've been doing since the day it arrived at our house! Now, on the best of days, pirates are frequently in attendance at our home, with "Arghs!" resounding from children and parents alike. "Pirates on the Farm" pairs a unique plot with colourful and action-packed pictures, making it a winner. I will say that some of the words in the story weren't always understand by my children, but the handy definition guide at the end of the book allowed for some good learning for the children. I especially enjoyed how the definitions are written in the unique voice of one of the pirates! Not only will this story entertain, but it will also teach your children an important principal about not judging and excluding people based on their differences. The dad especially is a shining example of loving everyone, no matter what, and I loved his adventurous spirit!

Any book that gives my children the giggles while also sharing important truths is an absolute keeper, in my opinion. So, if you've been looking for a children's book that is chock-full of humour, unique characters, and teachable moments to share with your children, then look no further than "Pirates on the Farm". I highly recommend this book and award it 4.5 out of 5 stars.

A review copy was received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.

[Meagan Myhren-Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pirates on the Farm
~ The Next Door Series ~
Written by Denette Fretz
Illustrated by Gene Barretta

What would you do if a crew of pirates moved into the farm next door? What kind of neighbor would you be? Well, Pirates on the Farm looks at just such a situation from the perspective of the young girl on the farm next door.

With their swashbuckling ways the pirates next door make the town folk nervous. Dad and Joey are more than willing to help out their new neighbors while Mother was anything but pleased.

But when Joey invites their new neighbors over to celebrate the holidays everyone learns a lesson in being good neighbors and seeing how important it is to love our neighbors as ourselves. Take your young reader on an excursion that open their eyes to the importance of showing God's love to those around us, because what we give grows.

The illustrations and story will give you and your young reader an enjoyable reading experience. Some of the pirates antics are quite funny. They say a picture is worth a thousand words and this book is priceless with what it offers in the way of entertainment!

I was provided a copy of this book by DJC Communications and Zondervan in exchange for my honest review.

[Beyond the Pages with Eva K · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delightfully humorous book! I thought this little treasure was the perfect blend of funny-hahas mixed with a love-thy-neighbor lesson.

The contrast between mom and dad's first reaction to the pirates was superb. I loved that I got to see mom's initial fear-intolerance-ignorance response once the pirates moved in and then her growth and resulting love-acceptance heart change. The way she reacted felt real. Sadly, how she began is exactly how many of us do when we meet people who are different from us. But wahoo for her transformation! Dad, on the other hand, was way cool. He was kind, accepting and consistent.

The story was told from the daughter/sister's point of view. She noticed everything. Umm...I am pretty sure there is a lesson in that for parents. We should take heed. Excellent!

I really appreciated the glossary of terms in the back of the book, as well as the personal letter and summary from the author. It was a nice touch.

Rating: 5/5
Recommend: Yes
Options: This would be a great resource for home study, church study, or for a Biblical education curriculum feature associated with a school.

A copy of this title was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Jennifer Lombardi · Rating 5 out of 5]

What would you do if a group of Pirates moved in next door? This hilarious and creative book shows how out of place pirates are when they take over a farm. They have NO idea how to plant seeds, take care of animals or even socialize! As you read through this book you get to enjoy watching the pirates learn important skills.

I found this book to be way better than I thought. My son and I laughed and laughed at the pictures and how the pirates did everything wrong. There was not a boring page in the whole book! The lessons were subtle but strong. I appreciated the fact that the pirates went to church as well!

Review from my six year old son Max:

"This book was funny because Pooch was crawling like a dog and every picture had something funny. The story was great because it was funny and there were Pirate words. I liked that the family started helping the pirates! I like this book and I will read it lots of times!"

***This book was given to us by the publisher in exchange for an open and honest review***

[Lynsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pirates on the Farm, by Denette Fretz and illustrated by Gene Baretta, is a cute childrens book that teaches the important lesson of "love thy neighbor".

When pirates decide to move to a rural farming community, the neighbors aren't sure what to think of them. They are different that what they are use to in their community but the father of the Sanders family loves them despite their differences. The transformation the mother makes towards the pirates is the true lesson of the book. From trying to run them out to helping to save their land, the twist teaches to love thy neighbor and the showing love through Christ.

This book is recommended for children ages 4-8 but both my kids (age 1.5 and 3.5) really enjoy this book. The illustrations are beautiful and the "pirate lingo" makes for a fun read. At the end of the book, there is a "pirate lingo" dictionary to help with words like "hardtack".

This was a quick read but still filled with adventure and a heartwarming story. This is a great book for any pirate loving kid!

[Margaret Chind · Rating 5 out of 5]

Series: The Next Door Series

Please, read the title again. Yes, I know right? I read an advanced copy but I want the real deal because this is an awesome book full of examples and discussion starters for all ages, about a true heart and "loving your neighbor." Excellent illustrations and pirate glossary in the end too.

I received this product free for the purpose of reviewing it. I received no other compensation for this review. The opinions expressed in this review are my personal, honest opinions. Your experience may vary. Please read my full disclosure policy for more details.

[Conor Brown · Rating 1 out of 5]

Is there a reason why the father is depicted as perfect, but the mother is horrible? The protagonist’s mother literally helps to organize the “Ban the Buccaneers Brigade”, while the (Christian, perfect) Father “turns the other cheek” to the pirates every transgression.

The mother doesn’t change her tune until after the Pirates give her a gift. Then she is prepared to see the error of her ways and does end up helping the Pirates.

I’m all for Christian fiction for my son. I’m not going to read him stories that portray Mothers as selfish and uncaring just so the father can be the perfect head of the household. This was a little too on the nose.

[Mr Bill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pirates on the Farm by Denette Fretz is so good. Pirates decide to move to town and take up farming. Of course they need a little help not be landlubbers and all, but Dad went over and helped. It wasn't easy turning seafaring pirates into land loving, working farmers and most of the community struggles with acceptance, but Dad remained a steadfast example. The story was adorable and fun. I suggest everyone sit down and enjoy it's bounty.

[Destiny Dawn Long · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a sweet little story about what happens when strange people move in next door. I liked the message of acceptance. But most of all I liked the humor. There are some great I illustrations that make the story even more entertaining. I was a little put off when I got to the end and discovered bible lessons--but it's easy enough to ignore.

[The Brothers · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a charming book about relating to people that we initially fear because we don't understand them.

A family has a bunch of pirates buy the farm next to theirs. The mother is fearful and wants to move away, but the father fosters relationships with them and in the end they all become friends.

Great illustrations.

[Aileen Stewart · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a wonderfully fun book about a group of pirates who decide to leave the sea and start farming. Told from the point of view of a neighboring child, it is a story of accepting others who might not be exactly the same as everyone else and forming worthwhile friendships. A great read for four to eight.

[Leslie Santamaria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This picture book about pirates moving into a small community is a gem! It's humorous while also demonstrating what it means to love one's neighbor, and the colorful, detailed illustrations complement the text perfectly.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very sweet, adorable and funny story, with great illustrations. I loved the Dad character, but I wish it had been a child who was the protagonist -- the story would have been slightly different, but it still would have worked.

[Christy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Had a great message, and I thought it was really funny!

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

Adorable.

[Bill Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely adorable! A wonderful book for the younger set. Fun story, great illustrations, and a good message to boot.

[Leslie Fisher · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is full of good lessons for everyone.