Pig Pig Returns

June 27, 2011
After a lengthy sabbatical, expressive Pig Pig is back, and he has some reservations about joining his aunt and uncle on a road trip. But despite a bout of carsickness and a few minor disappointments, the trip is fun: Pig Pig marvels at the world's biggest ball of yarn, a house made of soda cans, and a three-legged chicken. By the end, he "couldn't believe he hadn't wanted to come." McPhail has gentle fun with Pig Pig's trepidations (his favorite magazine, ironically, is Daring Pig Exploits, and even as the trip comes to a close, Pig Pig has a few more worries to get out of his system). But overall it's an empathetic and sensitive portrait of the ups and downs that come with trying something new. Ages 4â7.

July 1, 2011

PreS-Gr 1-In his latest adventure, Pig Pig is invited to travel in a camper across the country with his aunt and uncle. He is not thrilled about this idea and would rather stay home with his mom and his cat, Fluffy. After some persuasion, he decides to go and actually has a lot of unexpected fun. The travelers see things like mountains, hot springs, boulders shaped like elephants, and even a three-legged chicken. In the end, Pig Pig has a great time but worries that Fluffy has forgotten him and that his mom hasn't missed him. He's about to break into tears when he's welcomed home with open arms. The watercolor illustrations are playful and bright. The pigs all dressed up to look like humans add humor. This is a perfect read-aloud and would fit into any summertime or vacation theme. It also would be ideal to share with youngsters who are struggling with the idea of being away from home.-Lora Van Marel, Orland Park Public Library, IL

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