Farmer Ben called about an oak table Papa’s repairing for…
““Farmer Ben called about an oak table Papa’s repairing for him. They got to talking, and Ben told Papa that the farm has run into hard times. He had to fire his full-time farm hand. And now a lot of chores aren’t getting done. So Papa asked him if he would hire us to do them. And he said yes!” “Super!” cried Babs. “Outta sight!” said Queenie. “How much is he gonna pay us?” asked Lizzy. “Not much,” said Brother. “Just chicken feed.” “ Chicken feed? ” gasped Barry. “We can’t pay for Christmas gifts with chicken feed! We’ll get kicked out of every store!” “It’s just an expression,” said Fred. “It means ‘money, but not a lot.’” “I knew that,” said Barry, blushing.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A family discusses low wages, highlighting how modest pay can cause frustration and humor in everyday work.
In simple terms: Low pay can cause tension and jokes.
Recognize and address fair compensation.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- parenting
- small business
- community support
- budgeting
- negotiation
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you discuss pay expectations?
- What are fair wages for casual work?
Low wages may still be acceptable if expectations are clear.