I Know A Wee Piggy
As a teacher, I love getting new books for my classroom. I especially love getting new, free books for my classroom. There are so many great books out there (and I am very partial to my favorites) so it's sometimes hard to branch out and spend money on new books that might not be as "good". Upon receiving some free books (ordered with bonus points) from my classroom's latest Scholastic book order, I came across a book that is sure to be added to "my favorites" list; I Know A Wee Piggy written by Kim Norman and illustrated by Henry Cole.
First let me start by saying, I was drawn to purchasing this book solely on the fact that it was illustrated by Henry Cole. I am drawn to Cole's childlike illustrations and bright colors like a moth to my front porch light. I know they say you shouldn't judge a book by it's cover, but I just can't help myself when it comes to Henry Cole. Perhaps it's because I've seen him in the flesh on two occasions and he used to be a regular teacher like me. Or maybe that's just why his name sticks in my head when I see it on the front cover of a book. Either way I think his illustrations are fabulous and chances are if he's illustrated a book, then I'll definitely read it. And usually I'll like it too.
If you've read any of my other book reviews, you might know that I'm a little bit partial to the story, "There Was An Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly" because it reminds me of my Granny. I Know A Wee Piggy has the same cadence but tells the story of a little piggy at a county fair. This little piggy is somewhat of a mischief maker as he "wallows" in different colors all over the fair. I Know A Wee Piggy would make an excellent addition to any farm, color or rhyming unit in the younger grades. It would also be a fun vocabulary read aloud for upper grades. I love the use of the word wallowed. Perfect for all ages, you'll definitely want to add this book to your children's book collection!
