By Clyde & Sarah Hays

A Rhyming, Laugh-Out-Loud Farm Series for Kids Ages 3–7

Welcome to Hays Manor, a real-life East Texas farm filled with mischief, mayhem, and magic—seen through the curious eyes of a shaggy Highland calf named Alana Faye'. This charming, rhyming picture book series invites children into the playful and often hilarious world of Highland cattle, falconry hawks, mischievous roosters, hardworking horses, and plenty of locked (or… unlocked) gates.

Set in the heart of Texas but rooted in Scottish heritage, The Adventures of Alana Faye' blends traditional farm life with whimsical storytelling, all lovingly inspired by the animals and people who live on Hays Manor. Each book features engaging rhyming verse designed for early readers, with vibrant illustrations and recurring characters that bring young audiences back for more fun with every page turn.

From stubborn bulls to buzzing bees, and sassy hens to heroic hawks—every tale begins with a gate opening and ends in a mix of laughter, life lessons, and sometimes a little sticky honey.

The Series at a Glance

1. Alana Faye the Highland Coo

Where It All Begins

Alana Faye introduces herself and her world in this lively first book that sets the stage for the entire series. With her shaggy coat and curious eyes, Alana narrates her daily adventures around Hays Manor—from lazy goats and noisy dogs to wise old Clyde (the beekeeper) and Sarah (the woman in the blue dress suit who runs the show). She introduces young readers to the rhythms of farm life, the quirks of each animal, and the joy of being a Highland cow in Texas heat. Rhyming stanzas teach about nature, responsibility, and the sweet chaos of a busy homestead.

Key themes: farm life, family, seasons, Texas and Scotland, and the warmth of home.

2. Bee Lessons

(Willow Opens the Gate!)

In the second book, it’s Willow the palomino horse who causes trouble. After kicking open the gate to the bee yard, she gets a surprise she won’t forget—a good sting on the nose! As bees buzz and chaos unfolds, Alana watches it all with humor. Clyde comes to the rescue, and readers get a glimpse into the world of beekeeping. This book weaves funny farm antics with an educational look at honeybees and their role in nature.

Key themes: bees, teamwork, curiosity, consequences, and resilience.

 Why Kids and Parents Love the Series

• Rhyme & Rhythm: Each book is written in playful, sing-song verse that’s perfect for read-aloud moments and building early literacy.

• Farm Education: Subtle lessons about beekeeping, falconry, animal care, and nature are woven into the fun, sparking curiosity about the world.

• Real-Life Inspiration: Based on the true stories of Hays Manor in Murchison, Texas, and its lovable residents—both two- and four-legged.

• Consistent Style & Humor: Kids come back again and again for the silliness, clever animals, and the “gate opens and chaos begins” theme.

• Cultural Blend: A unique mix of Scottish Highland roots and rural Texas farm life that adds texture and identity to the setting and characters.

Meet the Characters

• Alana Faye: A shaggy, hornless Highland calf with a curious spirit, she narrates each story with wit, warmth, and a touch of sass.

• Clyde: The bearded beekeeper and falconer, strong and calm, always there to fix what’s gone wrong—sometimes with a bucket of honey.

• Sarah: Smart, composed, and always in her blue business suit and bun, Sarah handles everything from wayward bulls to stubborn gates.

• Wyatt: The youngest farmhand, full of energy, always learning and often caught in the middle of the mayhem.

• Gavin: One year older than Wyatt, tall, with brown hair and a dream of becoming a veterinarian. Gavin knows his animals and always has a quick jab ready—his sense of humor makes him a fan favorite on the farm, even when things go sideways.

• Ghillie: The big Highland bull with a slightly lighter coat—strong, moody, and occasionally the instigator of farmyard standoffs.

• Millie: A sweet Highland heifer who’s always shaking her head at the trouble caused by others.

• Willow: The mud-splashed palomino horse who learns the hard way not to mess with bees.

• The Chickens & Rooster: All black-feathered and full of personality—including one overdramatic rooster who steals the show.

A Perfect Series For:

Preschool and early elementary ages (3–7)

Fans of animals, farming, and silly rhymes

Parents, grandparents, and teachers seeking quality read-alouds

Homeschool families and classrooms exploring agriculture or rural life

Gift givers looking for unique, educational stories with heart

 The Real Hays Manor

These stories are more than make-believe. They’re inspired by the actual lives of the Hays family and their animals in East Texas. Clyde and Sarah Hays, real-life licensed falconers and mead makers, share their love of nature, heritage, and humor through these tales. Each story echoes true events—sometimes exaggerated for fun—but always rooted in the joy of family and farm life.

Whether it’s a Highland cow getting into mischief, hawks hunting in the morning light, or a rooster causing all-out chaos, the stories from Hays Manor are filled with the real magic of animals and adventure.

Because Hays Manor Is Never Just About One Generation

Though most stories center around Alana Faye and the younger family members still living on the farm, the heart of Hays Manor beats through generations.

Clyde and Sarah Hays are parents to seven sons, many of whom have grown up and moved out into the world, pursuing careers, starting families, and carving their own paths—but they never truly leave Hays Manor behind.

The older sons often return for visits, lending a hand during big projects, seasonal chores, or holiday adventures. Their presence brings stories, laughter, and sometimes even more animals (or tools) into the mix. With a blend of rural wisdom and modern experience, these sons keep the family close and the traditions alive.

And now… there are grandkids! Bright-eyed, full of energy, and often shadowing Wyatt and Gavin, the grandchildren are quickly becoming part of the next chapter of Hays Manor. Whether helping feed animals, chasing chickens, or sitting wide-eyed for a falconer’s lesson, they bring a new kind of joy and energy to the farm.

These moments—watching different generations laugh together, work side-by-side, and tell stories by the pasture—remind us that Hays Manor isn’t just a place, it’s a legacy.

 Future Adventures Await…

The Alana Faye series continues to grow, with more gates to open, more lessons to learn, and more laughs to share. Stay tuned for upcoming titles, including holiday specials, a coloring book, and even a “Where’s-the-Queen?” bee puzzle!

Come visit Hays Manor—where Highland coos meet Texas charm, and every day is a new adventure!

Whether you're giggling at Ghillie's antics, buzzing around the bee yard, or watching hawks soar across the sky, you'll find a little magic (and a lot of laughter) in every tale.