Farmer's Book Teaches Kids About Farm Machinery

Introducing a New Children's Book That Sheds Light on Farming

As the harvest season begins, a farmer in West Michigan is using a new children’s book to teach kids about the less visible side of farming. Kathryn Christie, a fifth-generation farmer at Endley’s Charolais Farms in Hastings, has published her first book titled The Hibernating Combine. This rhyming story offers a behind-the-scenes look at what farmers do after the harvest and how they maintain their equipment.

Christie explains that many children living in rural areas see combines but may not understand what happens after the harvest is complete. Her book aims to fill that gap by providing an educational and engaging narrative for young readers.

A Mission to Promote Agricultural Literacy

Christie is also a certified agriculture literacy educator. Through her business, An Earful of Agriculture, she works to promote agricultural education, prepare the next generation of farmers, and advocate for the importance of farming in everyday life.

She emphasizes the importance of understanding where food comes from and the care farmers take in maintaining their equipment, land, and the people they feed. “It’s crucial for people to know the effort and dedication that goes into producing their food,” she said.

The Story Behind the Combine

The Hibernating Combine follows a farmer and a child as they finish the harvest and prepare the combine for winter. The combine is a large agricultural machine used to harvest grain crops. It takes in the entire plant and separates the grains internally. On Endley’s Charolais Farms, the combine is used to harvest corn, soybeans, and wheat.

Through this story, Christie introduces children to the mechanics of farming and the importance of proper equipment maintenance. She hopes that by making these concepts accessible and fun, more children will develop an appreciation for agriculture.

Why This Book Matters

Farming is often seen as a seasonal activity, but there is a lot more to it than just planting and harvesting. Christie’s book highlights the care and attention required to keep farming operations running smoothly throughout the year.

By focusing on the combine, she brings attention to one of the most essential tools in modern farming. The book not only educates children about the machinery but also teaches them about the responsibility farmers have toward their land and the environment.

Encouraging Future Farmers

An Earful of Agriculture plays a key role in fostering interest in farming among young people. Christie believes that by educating children early, they can grow up with a deeper understanding of agriculture and its impact on their daily lives.

She also encourages parents and educators to use the book as a tool to spark conversations about food production, sustainability, and the hard work involved in feeding communities.

Conclusion

Kathryn Christie’s The Hibernating Combine is more than just a children’s book—it’s a valuable resource that bridges the gap between urban and rural communities. By sharing the story of farming beyond the harvest season, Christie helps ensure that future generations appreciate the efforts of those who grow their food.