George Woodard: Farmer, Filmmaker, Author
In the picturesque town of Waterbury Center, Vermont, lives a man whose job title may catch you off guard – “farmer-filmmaker.” George Woodard, a 72-year-old farmer, has seamlessly blended his two passions of cows and movies for decades. He wrote and directed films like The Farm Boy and The Summer of Walter Hacks, starring his son, Henry, before embarking on a new creative venture – writing a children’s book.
The Christmas Calf: A Magical Tale
Woodard’s debut children’s book, *The Christmas Calf*, is not your typical holiday story. Set on a dairy farm, the book follows a 9-year-old boy named Henry who experiences some enchanting moments while assisting a cow on Christmas Eve. What sets this book apart is Woodard’s deliberate choice to steer clear of traditional moral lessons, focusing instead on pure adventure and magic.
Bringing Cinematic Vision to Life
The illustrations in *The Christmas Calf* may surprise readers with their black-and-white palette, reminiscent of Woodard’s filmmaking style. He approached the book’s drawings as if crafting a film, utilizing various visual techniques to create a storyboard-like narrative. With over 60 illustrations that capture different perspectives and emotions, Woodard’s cinematic flair shines through on every page.
A Glimpse into Farm Life
Despite transitioning away from milking cows, Woodard’s deep connection to farm life remains evident in his book. Educational footnotes about cows pepper the story, adding layers of authenticity and knowledge for young readers. Woodard’s dedication to writing what he knows best shines through, making *The Christmas Calf* a heartfelt and informative read for children and adults alike.
As Woodard juggles his newfound role as an author with caring for his animals and planning future film projects, his commitment to storytelling and farm life remains unwavering. With more children’s books in the pipeline and a Prohibition-era screenplay on the horizon, George Woodard continues to enchant audiences with his creative spirit and love for cows and Christmas.
So, the next time you see a cow grazing in a serene Vermont pasture, remember that behind that peaceful scene might just be a farmer-filmmaker spinning tales of magic and wonder. Who knows, maybe the Christmas spirit is alive year-round in the hearts of those who dare to dream like George Woodard.
