Ernest and the Big Itch (Ernest series) [Hardcover]

Laura T. Barnes (Author), Carol A. Camburn (Illustrator)

Book Description

Age Level: 4 and up | Series: Ernest series

In this charming barnyard tale, a tiny, lovable donkey named Ernest and his farmyard friends show that persistence, acceptance, devotion, and friendship prove to be the building blocks of a happy life. In Ernest and the Big Itch, Ernest must find a way to scratch his back without bothering the other animals living on the farm. What he doesn’t realize is that the pole he’s chosen to scratch with is the home of two little birds—and he accidentally shakes them right out of their house! The birds decide to help Ernest find an alternative scratching post, leading the trio on an amusing barnyard adventure and resulting in a strong friendship between the three. Beautiful watercolor illustrations of the sweet miniature donkey and the other animals at Barnesyard Farm are sure to enthrall young readers and parents alike, and hiding in each picture is a cute little bug for kids to discover.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

reSchool-In this third book in the series, Chipper, a bluebird, and his sister wake up to a beautiful sunrise, but are shaken out of their reverie by a jolt so strong that they think they are experiencing an earthquake. After investigating the situation, Chipper discovers that Ernest, a tiny donkey with a big itch, is using the pole that holds their birdhouse as a scratching post. Chipper suggests that he use a fence instead, but it turns out to be the wrong height, and the ladder he tries isn't sturdy enough. Finally, Chipper comes up with the perfect solution-a tree-and Chipper, Sis, and Ernest watch the beautiful sunset together. Colorful pen-and-ink drawings focus more on the personable characters than on their surroundings. Although the story is somewhat sentimental and sugary, it is not overly didactic. Add where stories of cooperation, problem solving, and friendship are needed.
Kathleen Simonetta, Indian Trails Public Library District, Wheeling, IL
Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist

Ages 5-8. When two birds, cozy in their home, are suddenly shaken by what seems to be a huge earthquake, one of them investigates. He discovers Ernest the donkey, who is rubbing against the pole of the birdhouse, trying to rid himself of a big itch. The birds befriend Ernest, and together they search for the perfect place for him to scratch: a ladder, a fence, and finally a nice shady tree. These endearing characters teach a simple lesson of tolerance, patience, and friendship as the birds, instead of reacting with anger, help solve the problem. Attractively illustrated with watercolor and pen and ink, this is the fourth title in the Ernest series, based on the real-life barnyard adventures on the author's farm. And children will enjoy searching for the tiny ladybug hidden within each illustration. Helen Rosenberg
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 4 and up
  
• Hardcover: 32 pages
• Publisher: Barnesyard Books (April 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0967468124
• ISBN-13: 978-0967468129
• Product Dimensions: 10.5 x 8.2 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.3 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #528,429 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Laura T. Barnes and her husband live in a converted barn on their farm, Barnesyard, in Hunterdon County, NJ. Barnesyard is also home to an assortment of adopted animals, including homeless horses and miniature donkeys who enjoy quiet retirement pastures. Life on the farm is the inspiration for her award winning stories.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Ernest and the Big Itch (Ernest Series), September 20, 2005

By 

Christine Ankney (Pomeroy, WA USA) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Ernest and the Big Itch (Ernest series) (Hardcover)

Really cute book. I gave it to my Grandson on his second birthday and he just loved it. He wanted someone to read it to him right then. Great story and pictures.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Ernest and the Big Itch is adorable, July 14, 2005

By 

Greta Corkran "Greta M Corkran" (Easton, MD, USA) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Ernest and the Big Itch (Ernest series) (Hardcover)

I have all of the Ernest collection so far. Laura Barnes does an excellent job with these stories. I have given them to all my neices and nephews as well as my child. I personally like to read them myself. Perfect book for all kids.

5.0 out of 5 stars Destined to Become a Classic!, January 29, 2008

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B. A. Trausch (Edon, OH USA) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Ernest and the Big Itch (Ernest series) (Hardcover)

I recently purchased the five book series of Ernest the Donkey for my granddaughter. I believe the series is destined to become a much-loved classic. Ernest is a delightful little donkey with honest qualities and human-like character that animal lovers often see in their "friends." The illustrations are beautiful, too. I just wish the series was available in a board book for toddlers.