Moos, Mud, Mayhem!

by Deborah C. Aalbers, Daniel Wlodarski (Illustrator)

What happens when a group of playful, rascally cows
escapes from their pasture into a quiet street?

They have a party, of course!

But when the frolicking gets out of hand, and Grace gets stuck in the mud, Ellie and her bovine friends must use imagination, cooperation and perseverance to free their companion from her very sticky situation.

And now there’s a new problem. Eating barbecued grass has given these cows gas. In a SURPRISING twist, success in their quest to save Grace lies in one hilarious FART!

Moos, Mud, Mayhem! is a charming, lighthearted and engaging story that shows how one impulsive decision, and the shenanigans that follow, can lead to some very unexpected consequences! Mischief reigns in this cheerfully illustrated tale that children and parents will love reading again and again.

32 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 20, 2023

About the author

Children's picture book author, Deborah C. Aalbers, delights in eliciting laughter from young children with her whimsical and lighthearted tales. Deborah, a former teacher, firmly believes that sharing laughter together fosters a strong sense of community and friendship among children. Her debut story, "Moos, Mud, Mayhem!", featuring themes of determination, perseverance, and creative problem-solving, is adored by both children aged 4 to 7 and parents seeking a charming narrative imbued with a touch of whimsy. At the heart of her tale are five endearing and mischievous cows, capturing the imagination of young readers and parents alike.

When she's not busy crafting her stories, Deborah indulges in her love for reading, nurturing her garden and unwinding at the beach. She cherishes time spent with friends, family and especially her two young grandsons, for whom she wrote her first book. As well, she loves interacting with animals, particularly the cows grazing behind her house, and her opinionated, yet lovable, Australian Shepherd and two playful black cats. Together with her wonderfully supportive husband, she calls the Eastern shore of Nova Scotia home.

Learn more about Deborah and her debut book, "Moos, Mud, Mayhem!" at deborahcaalbers.com

Reviews

[Sue Slade · Rating 4 out of 5]

Moos, Mud, Mayhem! by Deborah C. Aalbers is a fun and playful picture book that would be excellent to read on March 20th for World Storytelling Day. It tells the story of how a mischievous cow named Ellie, and her four friends take advantage of a break in the fence to escape and have a party on the other side. Everything was going great and everyone was having a fantastic time until Grace got stuck in the mud. With some creative problem-solving, teamwork, persistence, and a bit of timely gas they finally succeed in getting their friend unstuck. Thus, proving the well-known proverb; If at first you don’t succeed try, try again.

With special thanks given to the cows in the pasture behind the author's house for their help with the story, this debut is perfect for children ages 4 to 7. I can’t help but think that these five delightful cows could be the stars of a great series, entertaining and capturing children's imaginations time and time again.

[Taylor Prins · Rating 5 out of 5]

We had this book given to us as a gift! I’m not sure i would have found it if it wasn’t! Oh my goodness my 3 year old just loves this book. The expression from the cows is too fun. He especially loves the page with cow farts! His eye brows high and eyes wide! he gets too excited.

[LitPick Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Moos, Mud, Mayhem! What more could readers ask for? This picture book is chock full of lively cows who dare to go beyond the fence and explore their surroundings. When an unexpected fall in the mud occurs, the cows must band together and use some of their discovered items to escape before the humans come home. With some teamwork and rigged engineering, the cows make it back to their pasture after their party day! What will these girls get up to next time?

Opinion:
Moos, Mud, Mayhem! is an energetic book for young readers that is perfect for a nighttime read. The author created such fun characters in the cows of the story that young readers can easily portray if they feel like acting out their bedtime story. Not only are the characters lively, but the author uses colors and illustrations that illuminate the joy behind the story. The words are placed easily across each page for young readers to follow along, and the font usage adds volts of energy to the book. Finally, the book teaches a heartwarming lesson that sometimes it is okay to have fun with your friends and that teamwork can help overcome challenging obstacles. Overall, this book is perfect for young readers to enjoy a lighthearted story before bed.

[Doris Beaudin · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a pure joy! From the first page of Moos, Mud, Mayhem!, my children and I were laughing. The humor strikes the ideal balance between being smart enough to keep parents amused and silly enough for kids. Every playful moment of the cows' adventure is captured in the illustrations, which use color and movement to bring the entire story to life.

I particularly value Deborah Aalbers' use of humor to impart valuable life lessons. Children are reminded by Ellie's "ideas" that while imagination is amazing, it's also acceptable for things to get messy. Teamwork and problem-solving skills are demonstrated through those errors. This book is definitely on my list of must-reads for 2025 as a blogger who reviews a lot of children's books.

[Fredda McCann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was mistaken to believe that Moos, Mud, Mayhem! would be another adorable farm tale; this one truly stands out. Deborah Aalbers has a talent for writing in a rhythm that is easy to read out loud. From the moment Ellie discovered the hole in the fence, my children, who are five and seven years old, were enthralled. When every cow exclaimed, "Mooooove!" the laughter was priceless.

The way the book layered its message was what I found most appealing. Beneath the chaos and the humor, it teaches children how to collaborate with others and use their imagination to solve problems. Not bad for a bedtime story! My son even mentioned that Ellie built the pulley system using a "simple machine."

[Lori Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can say with confidence that this picture book is perfect for storytime because I've read hundreds of them aloud. Kids are immediately drawn in by the rhythm and sound effects, "THUD," "Mooooove," and of course, the hilarious conclusion! The hall reverberated with laughter.

What really sticks out, though, is how effectively it fosters tenacity and inventiveness. Ellie's "ideas" demonstrate that attempting novel approaches, even absurd ones, can result in genuine problem-solving. My students had a great time coming up with additional ways the cows could have aided Grace.

Additionally, this book provides excellent early literacy opportunities through expressive vocabulary, sequencing, and repetition. It's a child's joy and a teacher's dream.

[Aaron Vinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the few picture books that really gets kids is this one. The language, the tempo, and even the humor all perfectly suit the playful nature of early learners. My preschoolers lean forward to watch Ellie's next move whenever she says, "I have an idea." It's a really fun way to increase participation and anticipation during storytime.

The book's subtle introduction of empathy and teamwork is another thing I adore. The way the cows band together when Grace gets stuck is similar to what we teach in class every day: supporting friends, maintaining composure, and working together to solve problems. It's the sort of tale that makes you laugh first, then teach you valuable lessons.

[Lara Humphries · Rating 4 out of 5]

Moos, Mud, Mayhem! is a treasure from the standpoint of literacy. Young readers benefit from the predictable structure provided by the repetition of phrases like "I have an idea!" as it helps them anticipate and engage with the story. It's fantastic for fostering early reading comprehension and confidence.

In addition to its educational value, it's just enjoyable. When Grace is eventually set free, the children cheer, giggle, and guess what will happen next. While the plot teaches them how to solve problems, the humor keeps them interested. This book has the potential to become a mainstay in early literacy programs.

[Charlie Kirby · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful surprise this book was. Every page elicits a response, including gasps, laughter, and excitement, and the writing flows exquisitely and the illustrations are vibrant. My daughter was totally engrossed in Grace's muddy accident and Ellie's audacity. After that, she even began coming up with her own "ideas," feigning to save her stuffed animals from danger.

The fact that it seems relatable to children is what I valued most. It honors creativity while subtly and non-overbearingly illustrating the results of snap decisions. In children's books, that balance is uncommon. In our household, this will undoubtedly be read again.

[Ryan Austin · Rating 5 out of 5]

All of the children were mooing with me by the second page of Moos, Mud, Mayhem!, which I read during our morning story circle. Even the most fidgety young children are captivated by this lively, playful tale. The humor strikes the ideal balance between being clever and ridiculous.

We then discussed how Ellie never gave up on helping Grace and the importance of teamwork. The kids connected well, even drawing comparisons to instances when they've cleaned up a spill or helped a friend zip up a coat. This book evokes empathy through humor, which is why I adore it. On our "Storytime Picks" shelf, it has become a constant favorite

[Kathryn Pellerin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was immediately transported back to my kindergarten teaching days by this book! As a parent, I now enjoy seeing my daughter's smile during read-aloud time. Playful, silly, and genuine, Moos, Mud, Mayhem! is pure joy. For children, the story embodies that amazing blend of chaos and curiosity.

Grace's mud incident made us both laugh aloud, and Ellie's constant "I have an idea!" reminds me of my daughter's vivid imagination. But beneath all the fun, there's a kind message about lending a hand to others, and I truly value that. It's one of the few picture books that seems to be timeless.

[Steven Helman · Rating 5 out of 5]

While some books turn going to bed into a chore, this one turns it into a celebration. For the past week, my 5-year-old son and I have read Moos, Mud, Mayhem! every night. Most of Ellie's statements, particularly "I have an idea!" can now be quoted by him. You can almost feel the mud splattering off the page thanks to the lively and dynamic illustrations.

Additionally, I love that it teaches children to think creatively and to persevere when things become messy, both literally and figuratively. It's hilarious, chaotic, and endearing. For parents looking for an inspiring and entertaining story, this is a huge win.

[Sarah Milone · Rating 5 out of 5]

I haven't laughed so hard in a long time after reading this with my family book club last weekend, which consists of both parents and children. There were giggles and dramatic "Mooooooves" throughout the room as each child adopted a "cow voice." It was the type of laughter that strengthens bonds between family members.

As a parent, I liked that the story never talks down to kids. It subtly suggests that decisions have repercussions while praising creativity and teamwork. This year, we've read a lot of picture books, but this one sticks out because of how much fun we had reading it together.

[Shirley Poirier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Moos, Mud & Mayhem had my children in stitches. They love funny books. Like a Saturday morning cartoon come to life, it's chaotic in the best way. I adore how former educator Deborah Aalbers writes with such a keen awareness of what makes kids laugh.

It's more than just laughter, though. The book's quiet emotional core is friends supporting one another, growing from errors, and coming up with innovative solutions to issues. It's uncommon to find that harmony between warmth and humor.

It serves as a fantastic reminder that creativity and teamwork can transform even the most muddy mess into an unforgettable journey.

[Joy Butler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Given my 6-year-old twins' obsession with cows, this book was a no-brainer, and it did not let me down! There is something new to discover on every page, and the illustrations are lively and full of entertaining details. They particularly enjoyed it when Grace got stuck and everyone had to help her.

Beyond its humor, the story serves as a real, non-preachy example of empathy and cooperation. We discussed the importance of using creativity when something goes wrong because of Ellie's incessant "I have an idea!"

My children will undoubtedly remember this story long after they have outgrown picture books, and it has become a bedtime favorite.

[Jami A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This month, our kids and our local moms' book club decided to read Moos, Mud, Mayhem!, and it was a huge success! While our children used stuffed animals to act out the story, we each took turns reading aloud. When Grace got stuck in the mud, the laughter was infectious!

Not bad for a story about cows in chaos, we then had a surprisingly in-depth discussion about friendship and teamwork. We all concurred that it's the ideal balance of enjoyable and significant. I heartily recommend it for group activities or family reading evenings.

[Martin Sanchez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Moos, Mud, Mayhem is what we found! through a friend, and in our household, it has become the "go-to" tale. When my twins want to try something new, they say, "I have an idea!" which can be both cute and scary. They also enjoy acting out the roles of Ellie and Grace.

I adore how the book naturally promotes problem-solving. It demonstrates how teamwork can come through even in the face of unforeseen circumstances. It's a great tool for playtime and teaching life lessons because of its heartfelt and humorous content.

[Jackie Gledhill · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a working mother, I seek out stories that immediately hold my son's attention, and this one did just that. The first "hole in the fence" hooked him. The teamwork lesson never feels forced, and the humor is perfect for children. As we read it together, I couldn't help but smile.

He was so moved by the story that by the end he was acting as though he was pulling Grace out of the "mud" with his toy rope. I adore this book because it encourages play and imagination long after the reading is finished, in addition to providing entertainment.

[Bryan Stephens · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really fun story. On a rainy afternoon, my daughter and I read it together, and it immediately lifted our spirits. The illustrations are lively and full of small details that kept her pointing and laughing, and the writing flows beautifully.

Grace's endearing vulnerability and Ellie's self-assurance won us both over. The opportunity to discuss friendship, bravery, and assisting others was ideal. She asked if we could read it again "tomorrow and the next day" after we were done. It says it all.

[Brian Trevizo · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was chosen for our "Farm Tales" theme night by our family reading group, which consists of some local parents and children. The best way to describe it would be chaos! With muddy sound effects and dramatic rescues, the children acted out the scenes. Reading became a performance as a result.

As a parent, I value any narrative that promotes cooperation, humor, and creativity. Deborah Aalbers has a deep understanding of what drives kids and how to make the experience enjoyable for parents as well. It's the kind of book that adds a magical touch to family reading nights.

[Emile D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

The spontaneous, inquisitive, and slightly mischievous nature of childhood is captured in this book. Seeing the cows work together to clean up Grace's muddy mess was a lot of fun for my daughter and me. We ended up talking about cooperation and supporting one another because it brought back memories of a time she got stuck in our backyard sandbox.

I enjoy reading books that are both entertaining and teach valuable life lessons, and Moos, Mud & Mayhem does just that. Every time you read this story, you can't help but smile.

[William Paulsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

After choosing Moos, Mud & Mayhem for its humor, our children's book club—which is composed of parents and educators, ended up talking about its heart. There is a heartwarming tale of friendship and problem-solving hidden beneath all the chaos and laughter. The humor is just the right kind of silly to keep young readers engaged without losing the adults.

Our group had a lively discussion about the conclusion: should the cows have received praise or punishment for their inventiveness? In any case, we all agreed that this book is a must-have for any child's library.

[Bonnie Barron · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story had my daughters laughing uncontrollably. The humor is just right for children, and I must admit that I was laughing too. The entire family was howling during the big "fart" scene. I adore how Moos, Mud, Mayhem! teaches kindness and cooperation while not being scared to embrace a little silliness.

For parents, it serves as a wonderful reminder that not all mess is bad; in fact, there are instances when it's the highlight of the journey.

[Levi Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everyone praised this, which we chose for the "family read" month of our local book club. Parents appreciated the witty storytelling and the obvious lesson about supporting friends, while the children loved the humor.

In addition to being humorous and lighthearted, it subtly teaches accountability and cooperation. We hope that Deborah Aalbers will soon write more adventures for Grace and Ellie.

[Paula Ledoux · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a huge hit with my students! At circle time, we read Moos, Mud, Mayhem!, and I don't think I've ever heard so much laughter in one morning. For young children with short attention spans, the story is lighthearted and well-paced. The lesson on teamwork really resonated with us; we later discussed how to support friends who are "stuck" in difficult circumstances.

[Lydia Stanley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm constantly searching for stories that strike a balance between heart and humor because I teach preschool, and this one does just that. The class laughed at the cows' antics, but I particularly valued the gentle problem-solving lesson. They joined the characters in yelling "Mooooove!" at the conclusion.

[Michael Elliott · Rating 5 out of 5]

In my classroom, this book has been a huge success! The children loved yelling "Mooooove!" whenever Grace needed assistance and giggling uncontrollably at the cows' mischievous behavior. This month's "Helping Hands" theme was a perfect fit for the teamwork message. They didn't want the book to end, so my only wish is that it had a few more pages!

[Connie Rosales · Rating 5 out of 5]

Throughout the entire book, my 5-year-old and I couldn't stop laughing. We had to pause because we were both laughing so hard at the scene where the cows sneak into the garage. "I have an idea!" became a family catchphrase as it was repeated. Every page of Deborah C. Aalbers's book builds just enough suspense for the next laugh, demonstrating her mastery of humor and pacing.

[Grace Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Last week, I read Moos, Mud & Mayhem to my preschoolers, and they responded with such delight. The children leaned forward, wide-eyed, anticipating what may happen next as soon as Ellie said, "Let's go play in the street." At the cows' "party," they burst out laughing and exclaimed, "Mooooove!" at precisely the right moment each time.

[Alma Waggoner · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book's inherent teaching of empathy and teamwork is what I adore most about it. Every student in my class wanted to contribute ideas to help Grace when she got stuck. It evolved into an unplanned lesson on collaboration and problem-solving, which is precisely what I look for in a read-aloud in the classroom.