Pig Dude (Michael Wagner, illus by Adam Nickel, Billy Goat Books)

Most of us will remember feeling inadequate when we were children, especially when we were trying to keep up with other kids our age or do the things everybody else seemed able to do. Parents often believe implicitly in their children and will tell them they can do anything they set their mind to; it’s all about building self-esteem. Pig Dude’s mother believes in her son and tells him he can do anything. So he sets out to do some of the things he’s always wanted to do, such as fly. He makes several attempts and succeeds in imaginative and daring ways. However, there are also several disasters. Told over 64 pages, every one illustrated in full colour, this story for newly independent readers will entertain with its humorous touches, sense of adventure and determination to succeed. The layout is spacious with large, easy-to-read type on a white background. While the text is appropriate for the age level, it could have presented more of a challenge to readers to help them develop their skills.

Margaret Hamilton is a former children’s book publisher. She now provides freelance publishing services and runs Pinerolo, the Children’s Book Cottage in Blackheath

Books+Publishing pre-publication reviews are supported by the Copyright Agency Cultural Fund.

Category: Reviews