Book Description

Ten 3 1/2 x 5" blank notecards (5 each of 2 designs) in a colorful wallet-style portfolio.Perfect for anytime gifts or personal use! ... Read more

Reviews (19)

amazing story about friendship
I noticed this book by two lovely pigs who shared love, caring and friendship that touches everyone's heart. I repeated this story again and again under my daughters' request and they loves Toot and Puddle. When I go for work, my youngest daughter, 3 y/0 read the story by herself. Therefore I bought the other story of Toot & Puddle from Amazon. I enjoy the story and I love the painting. Thank you Holly.

Fantastic illustrations and a great message
This book is a great choice for everyone. The illustrations are comical yet beautiful to look at. The story itself is just as fun. Toot and Puddle are very different in some ways and not so different in others--much like we all are. They are friends because of their love and acceptance of each other. It is a great book with a great message and I personally guarantee it will put a smile on your face.

We adore this book!
Toot and Puddle is a wonderful bedtime book - my 3 year old adores it. The lessons of respect for different types of "adventures" are wonderful and the illustrations are spectacular.

Plus, the illustrations contain all sorts of visual puns that the grownups can appreciate (example: when Puddle, inspired by Toot's trip to Paris, decides to paint, he has Van Gogh's sunflowers at his table. Instead of painting them, he paints an endearingly goofy self-portrait.)

Highly recommended for children and their readers!

Wonderful lessons on friendship.
My daughter, husband and I read this book for the first time snuggled in our bed before bed last night and we all enjoyed it very much.
The illustrations are great.
The book shows that two people, or pigs, can be best friends and be their own person. I also enjoyed that the characters kept in touch through post card writing.
I would recommend this book to all people with young children.

Toot and Puddle
Toot and Puddle is a great toddler book. Boys and girls will enjoy it for several reasons:
The story
It is a story about two pigs--the frieds Toot and Puddle. While Toot likes to stay at home, Puddle is a traveler. When he decides to travel around the world, he sends Toot cards from every place he goes to. At the end Puddle comes back home and the two pigs who have missed each other celebrate their friendship.
The illustrations
The illustrations are beautiful, focusing on the essence of each of the place Puddle visits (art in France, matadors in Spain, mountain climbing in the Alps) or each seasonal activity that Toot enjoys at home (skating in winter, Mud season in spring). THe text is short and not intimidating, full of age approrpiate humor.
The moral
You can be friends with many people, even if you like different things. ... Read more

Book Description

See the piggy,
See the puddle,
See the muddy little puddle.
See the piggy in the middle
Of the muddy little puddle.

And so begins this rollicking story-in-verse about a determined young pig who absolutely refuses to leave her mud puddle -- much to the dismay of her family!

Charlotte Pomerantz's tongue-twisting nonsense verse -- made even more exuberantly hilarious by James Marshall's illustrations -- is sure to delight both children and adults. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Squishy-Squashy, Mooshy-Squooshy,Oofy-Poofy Fun.....
"See the piggy,/See the puddle,/See the muddy little puddle./See the piggy in the middle/Of the muddy little puddle." She dawdles and diddles. She waddles in the merry middle. She dives and paddles, wiggles and giggles and though she's making the rest of her family very angry, she's having a blast. What's her daddy, mommy and brother to do? No matter how hard they try to convince her to get out of the muddy middle of the puddle and wash up with soap, she always says "Nope!" Well as the old saying goes...If you can't beat 'em, join 'em. And that's just what each of them do..... Charlotte Pomerantz's piggy puddle classic, is as fresh and delightful today as it was when she wrote it over twenty-five years ago. Her joyful, rhyming text, full of silly verse, wordplay and tongue-twisting alliteration is complemented by James Marshall's very familiar, humorous and expressive illustrations and together this dynamic duo will have youngsters giggling and laughing out loud at the antics of this charming pig family. Perfect for early readers, The Piggy in the Puddle makes an even better read aloud story the entire family will enjoy. This is a book to treasure and share now and with each new generation to come. Make sure you get your copy, today!

A great book for children 18 months through 99 years.
My youngest child in now 14. I thought I wouldn't have an opportunity to read "Piggy in the Puddle" again until I had grandchildren. However, having recently started a music enrichment business for preschoolers, I am thrilled to be able to again dig out my well-used copy of this book. Before reading the book in my music class, I explain a little about rhythm and rhyme and have the children start a tapping pattern on their legs and I read the book along to their rhythm. They love the book just like my children did. My older daughter has written a review of this book starting that we have it memorized and we do. The first time my male friend was introduced to "family dinner" at our home, he had to sit through four of us reciting, from memory, "see the piggy, see the puddle, etc.". He now also reads it in the preschool music classes he teaches. And to add another generation, my 77 year young mother reads it to the inhabitants of a nursing home she visits to bring cheer and laughter to them. If you have children (or don't but love fun, giggly books), be sure to order "The Piggy in the Puddle"

Frequent Choice of Two Year Old
I gave this book to my granddaughters, ages three and one, last Fall. Recently I attended a birthday party for the now two-year old. After events quieted, the birthday girl asked me to read a book. I asked her to go pick one from her room and she came back with the Piggy in the Puddle. I read it twice to both girls and they still wanted to hear it again. Their mother says it has been their favorite ever since I gave it to them. I believe they love the lilting, rhythmic beat of the language in the book. And of course--the piggy is a bit naughty!

Do we love it? YEP!
We checked this out from the library a few weeks ago, and it's a hit! I homeschool my six kids and they've asked for this one EVERY day. A first around here. They love it so much, they've assigned parts and we're planning to perform it as a play for our friends (if we can just get our three-year-old piggy to stay in the muddy middle...) This is a treat and I think it my be four-year-olds first memorized story.

silly willy oofy poofy fun!!!
What you need is lots of soap and lots of this book! But, the little piggy said oofy poofy, oofy-poofy nope, actually, yes!!! run out right now and buy this book!! Two curly pig tails up!!!
Why are you still reading? Why aren't you out buying this book?
Go Now!!!! ... Read more

Book Description

Eight mischievous piglets are off on another adventure, this time to raid a corn field for a tasty snack. When Mama pig's angry cries interrupt their fun, the rambunctious octet scampers away through the countryside, with Mama chasing closely behind. "First featured in Geisert's Oink, these vociferous piglets are back for more noisy hijinks . . . This witty and intelligent picture book is sure to elicit squeals of laughter." -- Publishers Weekly ... Read more

Reviews (1)

More fun than two words should be!!
The first time through this wonderful adventure left my child squealing with the "Momma's piggies". By the third time through, the concept of "Mommy's mad" was realized. Each time through this story gets more interesting. Your child will sit and make up stories around the wonderful illustrations! ... Read more

Book Description

On this visit to Woodcock Pocket, Opal has brought her new friend, Daphne. Daphne isglamorous and seems to be the best at everything, from jumping rope to standing on one leg the longest. As the visit unfolds, however, Daphne turns out to be less than perfect, after all--something of a prima donna, in fact. The dramatic conclusion makes it clear that Opal is every bit as special in her own way. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Whether it's bedtime, bath time, snack time, or picture-drawingtime, Piggy and his playful dad always have fun together. Brand NewReaders is an utterly charming series introducing young children tothe joys of reading. Each case contains four eight-page paperback storieswith wonderful, funny pictures and just one sentence per page, so evennew or reluctant readers can be successful at reading right away. A pageof valuable tips shows teachers and parents how to help their brand-newreaders master these skills. Others in the series include The Rosa Stories, Winnie All Day Long, andWow, It's Worm!.(Ages 4 to 7) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Educational and fun.
Another hit from the Brand New Readers series. Each book is funny and fun for my 3 year old to read. The pictures are colorful and interesting. The story lines are simple enough to read yet interesting enough to make my son laugh. A great value! ... Read more

Book Description

Gritch the witch flies to Old MacDonald's farm for some pigs to make piggie pie. ... Read more

Reviews (25)

Piggie Pleaser
The almost-three-year-old whom I babysit stumbled on this book at the library one day, so we took it home to read. We both loved it! The alliteration, funny demands by the witch ("fork over the pork...!"), and opportunities for accompanying actions (pulling hair, stomping feet, etc.) are just a few of the things that endear the book to little ones. I loved those things, too, as well as the subtle allusions to other children's stories. This is such a great book that I definitely plan on adding it to my collection!

A great read. You & your kids will laugh 'till it hurts.
Extraordinarily clever, imaginative, and entertaining, this book will have the whole family in stitches. Our 7 & 9 year old can't get enough of it. The cartoon artwork is very nicely rendered, and the text is hilarious, as when the witch tells the farmer to "fork over the pork!" Both art and text are reminiscent of the old "Mad" magazine style... hip, funny, & clever enough to revisit time and again without the humor growing tired. A small treasure, a great gift.

Best Slice of Pie I Ever Had
Gritch the Witch is hungry for something different, something out of the ordinary. It has to be Piggie Pie and if that isn't enough for you wait till your singing "Old Mac Donald had a Farm." This book is hilarious--a stubborn witch and a bunch of determined pigs keep you laughing. The book is for all ages to enjoy. Read it to your young ones and watch them laugh. In Piggie Pie you learn how teamwork can accomplish anything and if you are greedy you most certainly won't get what you want. I loved this book and can't wait to read the sequel. Buy this book and you will laugh so hard you will have to read it again and again.

Fun and Hysterical
This book is so fabulous. It's very fun reading for parents (who'll get more of the jokes then the children). Which makes it reading enjoyment for everyone. Sense of humor required.

Pigs Outsmart Gritch the Witch!!
What do you do when you want Piggie Pie for breakfast and you are out of piggies? If you are Gritch the Witch, you hop on your broomstick and head for Old MacDonald's farm, which is exactly what happens in the story Piggie Pie! by Margie Palatini. However, these piggies are too smart for Gritch and thwart her attempt to find them by donning costumes of other animals and pretending that there are "No piggies" at Old MacDonald's farm. Any child who hears this story will need to catch his breath from
laughing so hard as Gritch the Witch becomes more frustrated and excited as each page turns. The laughter will reach a crescendo when Gritch meets Mr. Wolf and they each have their own plan for lunch.

Librarians will have to arm wrestle each other to see who gets to be the one to read this story at a story time program. Each page is ripe with numerous opportunities to try out various voices of each of the animals. Howard Fine's illustrations are an integral part of the story because they clarify how the piggies fool Gritch. By the end of this delightfully funny story all who hear it will be rolling in the aisles! ... Read more

Book Description

The Freddy the Pig books have long been considered classics of American children's literature and with each reissue by The Overlook Press, this wonderful pig is charming his way into the hearts of more and more readers, adults and children alike. Freddy's Bean Farm is a frolicking place and Freddy--whether he's a pilot, cowboy, explorer, politician, or detective--will always save the day and be sure to have fun doing it.

In Freddy and Mr. Camphor Freddy is positively worn out from his job as President of the First Animal Bank and-- as if this wasn't enough responsibility for one pig!--his position as Editor of the Bean Home News. At the urging of the farm animals, Freddy answers an ad in the Bean Home News for a position as caretaker of a large estate for the duration of the summer. Freddy is a bit overwhelmed when what was meant to be a relaxing little respite from the world turns out to be a real challenge...but the pig will muddle through!

"They are the American version of the great English classics, such as the Pooh books or The Wind in the Willows."-- The New York Times Book Review

"There's a richness to the world of Bean Farm and a strong moral code that is timeless. . ."-- Los Angeles Times

"Freddy is simply one of the greatest characters in children's literature!"-- School Library Journal ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A Mild, but Pleasing, Freddy
Sometimes Mr. Brooks was able to come up with excellent titles for his novels; "Freddy and the Ignormus" will arouse anyone's curiousity, and "Wiggins for President" fairly jumps off the shelf. On the other hand, sometimes he wasn't; a neophyte reader discovering the title "Freddy and Mr. Camphor" on the library shelf might forgivably be tempted to shove it back in. Luckily, the book is stronger than the title.

"Freddy and Mr. Camphor" features two story lines; the primary involves Freddy becoming caretaker of a large estate and facing off against two sets of old enemies, the subsidiary involves insects pitching in to protect Victory gardens from themselves. The two stories are not tied together in any particular way, and do not represent Brooks at his best, but are certainly pleasant. Freddy fans will be pleased to see both Simon and The Winches, and Freddy's new friends, a pair of difficult hoptoads, are most amusing.

Freddy Takes Care
It is hard to imagine it happening to Freddy the Pig, but gradually his busy life as pig, poet, banker, detective, and newspaperman was wearing him out. Even his good friend Jinx the Cat could see that Freddy needed a change. But Freddy didn't see how he could leave all his responsibilities. Finally, his salvation came in the form of a help wanted advertisement for a caretaker at the estate of the wealthy Mr. Jimson Camphor.

The job seemed perfect. Freddy got to live on a houseboat while he guarded the grounds and mowed the expansive lawn. If it hadn't been for a chance meeting with Waldo and Elmo, a pair of dejected hoptoads, Freddy would have thought he was in heaven. But the toads reveal that all is not well. Simon the Rat and his clan have moved into the Camphor attic and, in a fit of random destructiveness, have chewed away the faces on the portraits that are stored there.

Nor is that the worst of it. Mrs. Winch, the housekeeper, turned out to be the estranged wife of Zebedee Winch and his son Horace, whom the reader may remember from Freddy's trip to Florida, where he gave the animals no end of problems. This time is no different. Freddy is locked up, a plot is hatched against him and Mr. Camphor returns to find Freddy accused of vandalism and theft. A dejected Freddy returns to the Bean Farm, determined to undo the damage.

Of course, things are not perfect on the farm either Webb the Spider is on a campaign to convince the insects that they should abstain from eating the Victory Gardens that are providing extra food for the war effort. He is opposed by Zero, the anarchist horsefly, and appeals to Freddy for help. Certainly, a pig's work is never done.

Somehow, of course, all is made right, but it takes all of Freddy's ingenuity, the cooperation of the farm animals, and even an array of militant fleas to bring all the culprits to justice. In the world of the Bean Farm, teamwork, friendship, and an honest determination to do the right thing are the tools that make the difference. As always, Brooks' lessons are painless fun. He displays a touch for gentle yet satirical caricature that cannot help but please both his younger audience and us doddering, older readers who remember the days before noir fiction and, like Freddy, occasionally need to take a break

Two foretrotters up for Freddy and Mr. Camphor!
Long after Walter Brooks has earned his eternal reward, he ismaking a paradise here on earth for fans of Freddy! Freddy andMr. Camphor is one of the best Freddy's out there. If you don't love Freddy, you'll love Mr. Camphor. If you don't love Mr. Camphor, there's always Bannister to adore. If not Bannister, well, there's Mrs. Wiggins, or Jinx, or the Webbs, or cousin Augustus and his relatives. One thing is certain, you won't leave this book without a new friend. Walter Brooks does for the animal kingdom what PG Wodehouse does for humankind by creating a happy fantasyland where nothing ever goes so wrong that it can't be undone, and it is always undone with wit and sagacity. ... Read more

Book Description

Fresh from his foray into Hollywood stardom, Babe gets a new cover for the

Knopf Paperbacks line."An animal fantasy which will inevitably be

compared to Charlotte's Web...Combines a robust pleasue in the smell and

feel of rural surroundings with a humorous affection for all living

creatures...a splendid book." The Horn Book, starred review


An ALA Notable Book


A Boston Globe-Horn Book Honor Book


A Horn Book Fanfare Honor Book


An IRA/CBC Children's Choice


An NCTE Teachers' Choice




... Read more

Reviews (9)

Truly a classic animal tale
Babe captured my heart, as he was trying to save his own skin. This book is truly a classic animal tale, where the creatures take on believable and human emotions and personalities. We see intelligence, fear, hope, and love, in a heartwarming pig, and his other animal friends. The inter-species bond between Babe and his human farmer is delightful! I have read it several times, and each time, see another angle, in this Pig-Shepherd memoir. Should not be limited to any age group, because adults as well as children will be entertained.
Arlene Millman
author of BOOMERANG - A MIRACLE TRILOGY
(The tale of a remarkable Boston Terrier)

The Best Sheep-pig Ever
When I read the book I thought it was great. I think that Babe set a good example because he never gave up.Babe is a pig that wants to be a sheep-dog.But since he is a pig he can't.But he still tried and his owner entered him in the sheep dog trials.I dont want to spoil the ending for youso that is all I have to say.

Babe the best pig
I had to read Babe in school. I didn't think I'd like it but I really did. I think Babe is very nice. He was always kind to others and never tried to be mean in any way. He got people (sheep) to obey him by just being kind. I think people in the whole world should read Babe and try to be like him.

A delightful book!
Dick King-Smith has written a real gem! He is a genius at characterization. We are immediately caught up in the contrasting characters of the farmer and his wife. She talks a blue streak with never a pause for breath and turns and twists at great length in long and convoluted sentences that take up half the page, question after question and answering most of them herself. One susinct word suffices her husband.

The animal characters are even more rich! The loving mother sheep-dog takes poor little piglet Babe under her "wing". Loving and kind though she may be to Babe, she is completely rude and disdainful towards the "stupid" sheep. Babe learns the power of truly respectful kindness, and totally surpasses the dog in being able to manage the sheep herd and bring out the best in them.

As a teacher, I believe this has a message for us. I've seen some "benevolent dictators" in my day, who treat students as simpletons and get as much. Kindness, respect, and assuming intelligence go a lot further!

Comparable to Charlotte's Web
It's impossible to not compare Babe to Charlotte's Web because it is also about a pig that is trying to save its neck. Babe really holds up well against the classic work. Babe (which is very much like the movie that came from it) tells a marvelous story and also contains a lot of depth. The short book tells the story of a pig who decides to become a sheep-dog (or sheep-pig). King-Smith relates humorous, exciting, and touching episodes of the pig's life until the novel reaches a splendid climax at the National Sheep-Dog Trials. The novel does have quite a bit to say about life. It speaks to overcoming traditional boundaries as Babe becomes a sheep-pig. The novel speaks to how fellow beings should be treated. Perhaps most importantly, Babe: The Gallant Pig speaks ... as Babe learns to treat the "stupid" animals (this is what they were known as prior to Babe) like sheep and ducks with politeness and friendship. Babe: The Gallant pig has a lot to say (particularly to children) and tells a great story. It certainly ranks among the top works of children's literature. ... Read more

Book Description

This little piggy went to market, leaving 10 behind. This little piggy stayed home, and then there were 9…

Count down from ten to one and follow ten touchable, squishy pigs in this fun variation on the classic rhyme.Children and parents will love reading and re-reading the familiar text and counting the pigs as they disappear with the turn of each page.This Little Piggy features unique, vibrant and playful art, with each scene depicted as a recognizable nursery rhyme or fairy tale.What a fun way to teach counting or subtraction! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great art!
The artwork in this book is adorable. Each page shows the pigs in a different fairy tale or nursery rhyme. After you've counted the piggies, you can go back to the book and identify each of the classic stories in the art. What a fun idea! ... Read more

Book Description

It's winter, and the barn is cold. There's no central heating for the ducks. No quilts for the mice.The animals of Bean Farm know that Mr. Bean can't afford to fix up their barn properly for the coming winter, so Freddy and friends decide to do the next best thing: head to Florida for a vacation.On the way south with the migrating birds, Freddy, Jinx the Cat, Charles the Rooster and the other animals foil burglars, outwit a band of hungry alligators, meet the President, and even uncover buried treasure. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Freddy's migration to Florida with other farm animals!
Mr. Bean's farm animals are very intelligent. They can read and some can write.A pig named Freddy gets the idea from a sparrow to migrate.He,a cow,a dog,a horse,two spiders,two ducks,and a cat all migrate to Florida for the Winter they have an exciting trip there and an exciting trip back to New York they meet the President and alligators and much, much, more.This book is full of adventure and humor.I recommend it to everyone. There are other Freddy books such as Freddy the Detactive,Freddy and the Bean Home News,Freddy and the Space Ship.

The Book Which Got Me Into Reading
In 1955 I was eight, and the eldest of three brothers. My mother couldn't go to the grocery store with all of us so she'd drop me off at the children's room at the West Hartford, CT, public library, and pick me up on the way home. It was there that I discovered Freddy, and that Pig spoke my language! It was Freddy, his wonderful compatriots on the Bean farm, and their fabulous adventures, that started me out right. Freddy Goes to Florida is the first of the series, and is where I recommend starting your own adventures with Freddy the Pig. Hats off to Overlook Press for re-publishing these books in their original look.

The New York-Florida issue
How many New Yorkers years for the warmth of Florida during winter? Snow birds? Such are the yearnings of Freddy adn the other barn animals. They leave their farm and start on the trek just as many New Yorkers do down I-95.....but with less adventures.
it is wonderful to have the Freddy books being reprinted for in freddy and his friends we can all see ourselves. Besides, they are just plain fun.
PS. I could be moving to Florida.....

Starting Out Fresh
This is the re-released edition of "To and Again," which was the book that started Freddy the Pig on his road to fame. As such, it will go down in history as one of the great American children's tales. It is written for all of us who sometimes want to drop everything, leave the irritations of a job, escape difficult conditions, or simply need a change. It teaches it's lessons of the value of a dream, the nature of adventure and friendship, and the real meaning of home with a characteristic aplomb which will go on to mark all the Freddy books to come, and make them accessible to young and old.

Charles the Rooster was depressed. He was tired of waking up before sunrise to greet the sun, and he hated the cold winter the would be coming all too soon. Then a passing barn swallow explained to Charles about migrating and the excited rooster went to work convincing the rest of the animals to go south for the winter. That wasn't hard, Mr. Bean was a good farmer, but he didn't have the money to keep the barn all warm and cozy. In no time at all everyone (Freddy the Pig, Jinx the Cat, Mrs. Wiggins the cow, Hank the horse, dogs, ducks, mice and even a pair of spiders) are headed down the road to Florida.

They go from one picaresque adventure to another. They get a bit lost, survive kidnapping, and fall in a few rivers. The get to meet the President and find gold. Best of all they reach Florida and spend some wonderful time being lazy and basking in the sun. There they have the biggest adventure of all. Wandering in the Big Cypress Swamp the animals are surrounded by alligators and Charles must pull a trick on the Grandfather of All the Alligators to escape the swamp and begin their trip home. On the way, of course, even more exciting things befall them.

"Freddy Goes to Florida" was written before Freddy really became the star of the series, although he plays a big part here, especially for his inventive mind and wonderful songwriting ability. He is proof that even the chubbiest of pigs is a fine friend and good company. But the reader, young, or old, will find much to enjoy in each of the characters. Even the hen-pecked Charles is worth the price of admission. And the Webbs too, spider-adventurers extraordinaire, will tick your nose too as they ride between Mrs. Wiggins horns.

The lessons of this book are simple, yet incredibly important. That friends are important, that sticking to your word is the right thing to do, and that you are never too small to play a part. That helping others helps one's self. And the perseverance reaches its goal. But the best lessons of all come from Freddy's wonderful songs. "Oh, a life of adventure is gay and free, and danger has its charm; and no pig of spirit will bound his life by the fence on his master's farm....[yet] however they wander, both pigs and men are always glad to get home again."

It's hats off to Freddy once again!
Freddy the Pig never ceases to amaze his friends--or his readers either, for that matter! And this time, Freddy and the Bean Farm animals are off to Florida! Walter R. Brooks "animation" continues the adventures of Freddy in his usual fashion and demeanor!

In "Freddy Goes to Florida," it seems that the Bean Farm animals have grown tired of the cold New York winters--and the fact that their beloved Mr. Bean can't afford to make modern refurbishments. So they decide to migrate South, just as the birds do! The animals draw lots to see who gets to go--after all, some of them have to stay and take care of the farm!

Headed by Freddy the Pig, Mrs. Wiggins (the cow), Jinx (the cat), Henrietta (the hen) and her husband Charles, Hank (the horse), the Webbs (Mr. and Mrs. Spider), Alice and Emma (the ducks), Jack (the dog), and Eek, Quik, Eeny, and Cousin Augustus (the mice), the traveling companions set off!

And then it is one adventure after another as this grass menagerie (plus a few others!) head South. Dishonest humans, tricky alligators, and even a "pot of gold" await this crew as the excitement mounts! And on their way, the stop by Washington, where they are greeted by the President of the United States, who had heard of their goal (after all, they are the first animals to migrate!). And, of course, the animals are able to find a pot of gold, too!

Published in the late 40s, Brooks' Freddie the Pig series has captured audiences far and wide. It is refreshing to see such a children's classic stand the test of time (I first read "Freddie the Detective" back in the 50s!) and while many are now out of print (check your local library--that's a good source!), the adventures of these farm animals always bring a smile! Such fun--no matter how old a child you are!

(Billyjhobbs@tyler.net) ... Read more

Book Description

It was time for the three little wolves to go out into the world, so off they went and built themselves a splendid brick house. But they hadn't reckoned on the big bad pig who soon came along and knocked their house down.

The little wolves built a stronger house of concrete, in which they were sure to be safe. But that didn't stop the big bad pig, who made short work of it with a pneumatic drill. Even a house made of armor plates could not protect them. It was only a chance encounter with a flamingo bird that solved their dilemma in an entirely unexpected and satisfactory way.

Helen Oxenbury's enchanting watercolor illustrations, full of humorous details and visual excitement, are the perfect accompaniment to this hilarious retelling-in-reverse of the traditional tale. ... Read more

Reviews (37)

The Three Little Wolves and The Big Bad Pig
I thought that this book was most interesting out of all of the childrens books that I have read. I liked this book because it is funny, especially with the switching of the wolves and pigs. The story takes dangerous animals and turns them into meek little animals. Then it takes an ordinary barn yard pig and makes him into the bad guy. so the whole story has been turned around.

It is neat how the big bad pig takes the power tools and knocks down the houses instead of using his breath by huffing and puffing and blowing the houses down.

The wolves use their friends the beaver, kangaroo, rhinoceros, and the flamingo as there suppliers for the materials to build their houses. They do not have to pay for the supplies, they just ask for the materials and their friends give them what they need.

The rhinoceros was more than happy to give the needed supplies along with other supplies that they did not even ask for, to his friends because he was feeling generous and kind hearted.

The Kangaroo gave them some bricks that were yellow and red so their house would be strong. But that failed because the pig was able to smash the house down with his sledge hammer.

The beaver gave the wolves concrete so they could build a stronger house. But the Big Bad pig used his pneumatic drill and knocked the house down.

hysterical new twist on an old theme
I was looking at this book in our school library when a fellow teacher leaned over my shoulder, read the title, and said, "Oh, no! I bet this one is hysterical!"

She was right.

The obvious role-reversal of Wolf and Pig in the retelling of this old classic is sure to make any child giggle even before the book is opened. Once you DO start reading it, stand back! Three cuddly little wolves are sent by their mother out into the world to make their way (mom is painting her nails black and has curlers in her hair and tail--a very nice touch!). The three wolves, in a departure from the original tale, borrow some bricks from a passing kangaroo and build a sturdy brick house.

All goes well and they're out in the garden playing croquet when the Big, Bad Pig comes sauntering along. The wolves hid inside, won't let him in, and the Big Bad Pig tries to blow the house down.

He cant, of course. The house is brick! But, "the pig wasn't called big and bad for nothing. He went and fetched his sledgehammer and knocked the house down." The illustrations by Ms. Oxenbury of the pig smashing the walls with a hammer while the wolves flee through a window is worth the cost of the book alone. But, wait! There's MORE!

They build a succession of stronger houses, each which is demolished by the pig (he uses a pneumatic hammer and dynamite). Only when they try to change their tactics and make a house of FLOWERS does the pig change his ways and see how destructive and obnoxious he was.

This is a marvelous book, and no mistake. There are probably a good 200 versions of the Three Little Pigs, many of which end with the grisly death of the wolf. In the Three Little Wolves, not only is the reader immediately hooked on the role reversal of wolf and pig, but the text and illustrations are simply hysterical and the peaceful ending make it far more enjoyable than the original fable. This is a book that should be in everyone's library!!

A wolf-friendly revision!
As a kid, I loved wolves and hated the Three Little Pigs. So this funny, wolf-friendly revision of the creepy old classic really tickles me! It begins with Mama Wolf sending her doting pups off into the wide world with the warning: "Beware of the Big Bad Pig!" Keeping Mama's message in mind, the trio decides to build a strong house for protection from the boorish boar. The three fluffy, friendly, refined little wolves are never named, but I like to call them Frasier, Niles, and Daphne. The pig, a burly bully of a construction-worker, could be named Brutus. Safe in the yard of their new brick home, the little wolves play a spirited game of squash. Suddenly the swaggering swine shows up! In a reversal of the original tale, the Big Bad Pig pounds on the wolves' door and demands to come in, while they quaver, "Not by the hair on our chinny-chin-chins!" Then, using his construction hardware, the pig destroys the brick house, and the wolves flee with their fluffy tails between their legs! As the three little wolves build progressively massive fortresses, the big bad pig employs heavy ground-breaking and demolitions equipment to smash them to rubble. At last, the little wolves have no materials left with which to build, except -- ah, but I'm not going to give away the surprise! Let's just say, the ending is a lot sweeter than the original. No one gets boiled alive or devoured, and the the classic adversaries even become friends. Kids and parents will love the beautiful artwork and the silliness of the story, although the ending might seem just a bit too saccharine after all the destruction and mayhem.

entertaining revisionist fairy tale
Kids and adults will enjoy this comic retelling of the classic story of a bully and the three hapless siblings he has targeted -- yes, you guessed it -- the three sweet little wolves and that big bad pig. The illustrations and text are very funny as the pig uses increasingly hefty items to tear down the brick, metal and armored houses built by the wolves, until at last an unexpected material proves that even bullies have their limits. A fun read.

Two Words - Rush Job!
For a children's story this book is pretty average and boring. For a parodied fairy tale it's also below average. There are far higher quality both children's and adult fiction retelling of or in fairy tale format books out there. Gary Larson's, There's a Hair in my Dirt! Would be my pick for the best fairy tale style children's book (adult's will love it too) and Once Upon a Crime would be my pick for the adult fiction readers.

I really didn't like this book. I think the author came up with a good idea of reversing the wolf and pig roles but obviously couldn't develop it further. The artwork in the book is pretty average as well.

Obvious situations don't happen in this book and aren't explained. Why the wolves don't stand up for themselves or just call the police for one. Why are other animals carrying around bricks, cement and other heavy building equipment while walking if they have no intention of using it themselves is another. Becasue you know I often carry around building materials when I go for a walk.

The ending is terrible (don't worry I won't give it away) and very unrealistic. Kids could be taught through the story how to deal with bullies or crime and other messages in this book if it was written properly. Give this a miss.

A great sequel to the original Three Little Pigs tale is the children's book Porkenstein. In this tale the surviving pig from the house of bricks is a mad scientist and decides to make himself a friend. Buy it instead. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Toot and Puddle fans, rejoice! The lovable pigs are back in a touchingtale of friendship lost and found--literally. The story begins with a note fromToot, "Puds, Gone for a walk. Be back soon. T." But he doesn't get back soon (nosurprise to Toot and Puddle fans), and by dinnertime, Toot is worried. He headsinto the night, searching everywhere. He decides to think like his buddy totrack him down, so he hops a train, then a bus, then gets on an airplane toProvence. And, what's this? "'Bonjour, mon ami!' Toot cheered." Once together,they head for Nepal, naturally, for the top of the world. And then they gethomesick. Hollie Hobbie's gentle watercolors are as charming as ever. Childrenwill worry about Toot, admire Puddle's loyalty, and cheer the happy ending.(Ages 3 to 7) --Karin Snelson ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Another Porcine Grand Adventure.....
When Puddle got up that morning, Toot was already gone. "Puds, gone for a walk. Be back soon. T" Only Toot didn't come home that morning, or afternoon, and by dinner, Puddle had decided it was time to go out and search for him. Thinking just like his best friend, Puddle soon finds himself at the airport on a plane to Provence. "Now that was one place Toot had never been." In no time, the two old friends find each other, and after having a wonderful time in the French countryside, decide to travel on to Nepal. "They have the highest mountain in the world there..." Holly Hobbie takes the reader on another heartwarming and entertaining adventure starring her endearing pint-sized piglets, Toot and Puddle. Ms Hobbie's gentle and witty text is engaging, but it's her sweet and captivating artwork, filled with bright colors, warm humor and dazzling, playful details, that really steals the show. Youngsters 3-7, who've enjoyed the previous books in this series, will revel in this latest adventure. Toot & Puddle: Top Of The World begs to be read aloud and shared, and is a fun-filled, magical story that shouldn't be missed.

You will Love Reading This Book With Your Child
One of the sweetest children's books I've seen this year. The illustrations are so beautiful and the story is so charming you'll come back to it again and again. The plot is simple enough for the four and five year old set, but there is enough subtle content and gentle humor to the story to satisfy the six and seven year olds too. This book would even appeal to an adult friend -- especially one who loves to travel. Finally, if you are a fan of Olivia you will feel right at home with Toot and Puddle. ... Read more

Book Description

When Owen and Daddy have a whole day to spend together, Owen tries to tell his daddy how much he loves him. Owen loves Daddy more than chocolate milk...more than seven scoops of ooey-gooey chocolate caramel ice cream...more than one million zillion kisses! But at the end of the day, Owen knows that Daddy loves him just as much -- and all day long.

Francesca Rusackas and Priscilla Burris are the talented author and artist of i love you all day long, which features Owen and his mommy. Here is a new book about the enduring love between a father and his child.

Reviews (2)

Among The Best In A Classic Series
Cynthia Rylant's three early-reader series (Henry and Mudge, Mister Putter and Tabby, and Poppleton) are almost uniformly excellent, but Poppleton has always been my particular favorite. They have a slightly off-kilter feeling to them that makes me smile (and my daughter laugh out loud) even on the fifth or sixth time through.

The second and third stories in _Poppleton Everyday_, in which Our Hero shops for a bed and goes sailing with his friend Fillmore the Goat, are superb even by the high standards of the series. Each one takes a perfectly ordinary situation, lets it spiral into absurdity, and then resolves it in the last two pages. Mark Teague--who has one of the most distinctive styles in children's literature--is provides pitch-perfect illustrations to go with it.

This is a series to cherish. If you haven't tried it, do!

Poppleton eccentrically charming; he tickles funny bones.
Poppleton is the first character in a long time who has had my girls begging to hear him again. Cynthia Rylant's characters have always been enjoyable. The unexpected quirks in Poppleton's personality got a lot of laughs from my girls, and my 12 year old son. This book makes a great read-aloud for many ages. We have never enjoyed being not relaxed so much. ... Read more

Book Description

When a delicious-looking piglet knocks on Mr. Fox's door "accidentally," the fox can hardly believe his good luck. It's not every day that dinner just shows up on your doorstep.It must be his lucky day! Or is it?

Before Mr. Fox can say grace, the piglet has manipulated him into giving him a fabulously tasty meal, the full spa treatment (with bath and massage), and . . . freedom.

In a funny trickster tale of her own, Kasza keeps readers guessing until the surprise ending when they'll realize it was piglet's lucky day all along. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Loved this book
Our family loves this book! My husband will use the catchy phrase "just a thought Mr. Fox" when ending sentences with us. This is a wonderful book that our daughter instantly made one of her favorites. We read this book at least three times a week and sometimes more.

excelent children book
Attractive, enticing story and very beautiful pictures. Both parents and chidren will enjoy.

Cleverly crafted and delightful!
I have three sons, ages 2, 4, and 7, who are captivated by this book and bombard me with requests to "Read it again, Mommy!" My two year old refers to My Lucky Day as his favorite book, and he carries it everywhere. Not only is the story line clever, but the illustrations are also fabulous. The last time I read a children's story with an ending this clever was when I got Bark, George, by Jules Pfeiffer.

very cute book
My girls (age 2 and 4) really love this book. It has an unexpected ending with the pig outsmarting the fox. This book is my first introduction to this author and I plan to check out her other books as well. The book has been fun to read to them and is a frequent choice for bed-time reading. ... Read more

Book Description

"I'm squished! I'm squashed! I'm buried in this heap! You're hoggin' up my space in bed. I'll never get to sleep!" This irresistible read-aloud is sure to be a hit with little bed hogs and their sleep-deprived parents. Kelly DiPucchio grew up on a small farm, where her family raised horses, chickens, ducks, rabbits, and goats-but no hogs! She likes to ham it up in southeastern Michigan, where she lives with her husband and three children. Bed Hogs is Kelly's first picture book.

Howard Fine is the illustrator of many fine pig picture books, including Piggie Pie!, A Piggie Christmas, and Piggie's Twelve Days of Christmas. He is also the illustrator of Zoom Broom and Broom Mates. Howard Fine lives with his wife and three children in Westchester County, New York. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Hoglarious!
Bed Hogs is a well-crafted rhyming story that flows like the drool out of a hog's mouth. I have added it to my collection of books to read aloud to groups of children. They laugh out loud everytime! The illustrations are amazing, and compliment the story to an extreme! Very well done...this is what parents are looking for when purchasing a children's book.

Very cute!
This was a very cute book which will have any child laughing as it is read to them. I received it as a gift when my baby was born, and even though he is too young to understand it now, I fell in love with it. The illustrations are fantastic, too!

A pork barrel of laughs!
It's very hard to resist this adorable cover. And once you pick it up, you won't be disappointed! I laugh all the way through BED HOGS every time I read it to my kids, who can't seem to get enough. We all identify with the poking and kicking and snoring and drooling that inevitably happens when families cuddle up! It's a perfect bedtime, familytime story!

Bed Hogs is a wonderful book for children and parents alike
I've just finished reading Bed Hogs by Kelly DiPucchio and I loved it. It is a funny story with a life lesson on how much families need each other. The illustrator did a "fine" job too.
I intend to include books like this one whenever someone has a baby shower. ... Read more

Book Description

Mr. Pig, Mrs. Pig, and the piglets are hot, hot, hot and they really want to go to the beach. But time is running out for the Pigs! Will they be able to count the seconds, minutes, and hours and enjoy a swim in the ocean? ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great for teaching the concept of TIME!
This book is great for teaching second graders time. They each use a small clock to move the hands as time passes while the pigs are trying to get to the beach. I have tried this book with a second grade class and they loved it! Great way to integrate literature and mathematics. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A Travelling Toot and Puddle Gift Set
I love my portable suitcase set of Toot and Puddle! This travelling box of books contains the first three Toot and Puddle tales, has a nifty plastic carrying handle and bonus postcards. It's perfect to introduce your little one to the warmth, friendship and magic of Toot and Puddle or bring delight to the Toot and Puddle expert. Sized for kiddie-hands and great for when you don't want to lug around big picture books on your own travels. ... Read more

Book Description

With a friendly and funny question-and-answer format which compares people and animals, this book provides the perfect vehicle for introducing children to experiences they all encounter as they grow and develop. Fred Ehrlich's exaggerated humor leads perfectly to the fact that these are functions each child needs to master.Both author and artist present their material in a manner designed to be informative and reassuring, as well as funny. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Pig Latin
Okay, Okay, Okay...hold on a minute:

1) Pigs are cloven, and yes perhaps if they applied enough pressure to the toilet handle perhaps they could flush, but come on seriously? Flushing with a hoof?

2) Pigs are short, hence, they could never reach the toilet handle without help. It would take at least two smart pigs, one balencing the other to flush. Not likely, friends.

3) "What if the pig jumped?" Whatever. I've heard this argument so many times, I'm sick and tired of the "Verticalist Theory". The highest jumping pig's vertical ever recorded was six inches. That leaves about two and a half feet to cover to flush. Insipid.

4) Pigs go outside. Okay, a few eccentric pig-owners have been known to keep their pigs indoors but a vast majority of pig-life is spent outdoors. Ever heard of a trough? A sty? Pig-iron? Wake up Farmer Browns of the world!

5) Finally, pigs are free.

Great Book I've Never Heard of
My sister is trying to potty train my two year old nephew. I was visiting one night and he had me read "once upon a potty." i thought it was okay. i asked my sister if she had bought "everyone poops" yet and she had never heard of it. i was a bit surprised, as it had a sort of cult following when i was in high school. so i got on ole amazon to order "everyone poops." i decided to follow their recommendations and also pick up "does a pig flush?". it has become one of THE books my nephew wants people to read. the illustrations are good and the text is engaging. it gets a bit didactic toward the end, but my nephew doesn't seem to mind. i think his favorite part is answering the questions at the beginning concerning "who" flushes. i think it might be one of the better potty books. ... Read more