County Fair is from the Little House Picture Books series which I absolutely love. These cheerful and colorful books are a wonderful introduction to some favorite stories in the Little House series by Laura Ingalls Wilder.

County Fair

This story features Almanzo when he was a boy growing up in New York state. The Wilder family has many entries in the county fair and they are excited to go. Almanzo has entered his carefully-tended pumpkin and he believes he has an excellent chance of winning. The picture book takes you through the highlights of the fair including what Almanzo saw, what he ate, and how his pumpkin did against the competition.

County Fair is a fun book with so many learning opportunities you can enjoy with your children.

Homeschooling Ideas

Geography – Locate Franklin County and Malone on a map of New York. Add in other important towns, cities, geographical features, and landmarks in New York.

Science – Almanzo is frightened the first time he encounters a mule. Learn about mules.

Home Economics – The book tells us there was succotash, vinegar pie, and raisin pie served at the fair. Look up the recipes for these and maybe even make one!

Field Trip – Find a county fair near you and make plans to attend.

History – What is the record for a prize winning pumpkin now? Look for details about pumpkin competitions in the U.S.A.

Wilder Homestead – Learn about the preservation efforts of Almanzo’s boyhood home on the Wilder Homestead website. Also see Trip Advisor for more photos.

Pumpkins – Do a pumpkin unit study or learn with all kinds of pumpkin-themed activities in my shop.

More In My Shop