“A Farmer Went Trotting”
A farmer went trotting upon his gray mare,
With his daughter behind him, so rosy and fair.
A raven cried croak! and they all tumbled down—
The mare broke her knees, and the farmer his crown.
Aimed at beginning readers, this collection presents short poems and simple prose about household and farm animals, including dogs, cats, birds, poultry, horses, rabbits, and small pets. Brief anecdotes, descriptive pieces, and rhymes portray everyday pet behavior, care tasks, and gentle moral lessons about kindness and responsibility toward animals. Sections group similar creatures and alternate playful vignettes with practical tips for feeding, housing, and helping wildlife. Illustrative scenes and accessible language support early reading and introduce empathy for animals.