Jake Johnson: The Story of a Mule

by Tres Seymour, Marsha Gray Carrington

Farmer Puckett's custom of hauling a wagonload of fireworks to the fairgrounds for the Independence Day Social is endangered when his stubborn new mule Jake Johnson refuses to move. By the author of Hunting the White Cow.

Genres: Picture Books, Holiday

32 pages, Hardcover

First published March 15, 1999

About the author

Tres Seymour is a picture book writer, illustrator, and ranger at Mammoth Cave National Park and lives with his wife in Park City, Kentucky.

Reviews

[Laura]

Every year, Farmer Puckett uses his wagon to haul fireworks to the town's 4th of July celebration. This year, however, his new mule Jake Johnson doesn't do anything but sit in the yard. Mrs. Puckett has the brilliant idea of lighting a fire to get the mule going, which results in the wagon of fireworks creating one giant celebration.

My third graders enjoyed making predictions for this easy, brightly illustrated story. Recommended for grades 1 and 2.

[Vivian]

Who ever would have thought this would be a 4th of July story? It's a little too wordy to use in s library story time, but with a quick read-through prior to the program it can easily be narrated. If the group is older, say ages 5-8, a full reading to the group is fine.

It's a hilarious story about motivation and stubbornness, not to mention 4th of July traditions.

[Katie]

A teacher asked me for some Independence Day books and I happened upon this book in my collection. It intrigued me how a mule would have anything to do with Independence Day so I sat down and read this humorous book. I think the ending will have kids laughing and it can lead to some good discussions about what Independence Day is all about. Loved it!

[Molly]

Humorous illustrations and a chance to make Mule noises...perfect storytime combination.