The chickens are restless, and they want to go on an adventure. They get out of their yard, they go to town, they go to shops and a yoga studio, and nothing can get them to stop. When they get hungry, they go to the food trucks, and when they get tired they head back home to rest. They get chased all over the town by everyone trying to get them home, from the yogi to a police officer to the chef. But those chickens have minds of their own.

Chickens on the Loose is a charming rhyming book that is just a joy to read. Kids will want to listen to it over and over, and adults will enjoy reading it over and over. The lyrical quality to the story is a little addictive, so you might find yourself repeating it to yourself after reading it, whether you want to or not. And illustrator John Joseph has created brightly colorful art to go along with the story, so kids will love the pictures as well.

Chickens on the Loose is based on the real-life adventures of author Jane Kurtz’s friend who has chickens. Her friend’s chickens get out, and while they don’t necessarily have as much as fun as these chickens do, it’s fun to know that there are real chickens out there living it up.

I do feel like I need to warn you about one feature. The book contains some actual information about how to keep urban chickens, so your kids may decide it’s a great idea to get chickens for your backyard and pester you for that (I’m sure I would have when I was a kid!). Otherwise, Chickens on the Loose is just adorable fun for all ages and deserves a place on the shelf next to your favorite read-aloud books.

Egalleys for Chickens on the Loose were provided by West Margin Press through Edelweiss, with many thanks.