Chapter Twenty-two: In the Land of Pencils and Chapter Twenty-three: Poultry on Parade Summary and Analysis

The kids are reluctant to move and no snow is present for Christmas only confirms their rebellion. Just as the children are ready to mutiny, the sky breaks loose and the landscape is buried beneath a foot of snow. The kids, John, and Marley romp in the snow, tobogganing and sledding. As the editor of an organic gardening magazine, John is dedicated to running his own household as naturally as possible. John and Jenny decide to invest in chickens. Chickens will provide a source of fertilizer, pest control and food. The neighbor advises them not to name the chicks. When John arrives home the day the chicks arrive, he is greeted by Conor, Patrick, Colleen and Jenny...