Tuesday, March 2, 2010

Captain Small Pig by Martin Waddell

Hello, everyone!  Welcome back to another day, another post here at Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers!  Today we are taking a look at a new addition to the Children's Fiction/Storybook genre that just recently came on the scene, but is sure to find its way into your heart.  Let's jump right in, shall we?  Today's book of choice is....


by
Martin Waddell
Old Goat, Turkey, and Small Pig...three loveable characters about to set out on a little adventure. As with all young ones, Little Pig is curious about everything, and when the chance arises to try something new, he doesn't hesitate to jump right in. On this particular day, they discover a small red boat that Little Pig simply must investigate. One thing leads to another and before long, these three unlikely companions are floating along the high seas (okay, it's a lake...but they are small animals...), fishing for whales, and enjoying a day well spent. When Little Pig decides he wants a turn at rowing, the happy elderly pair hand off the tiller and turn in for a short nap. But wait...what's this? Yawning seems to be catchy whenever you see someone do it and thus with his friends asleep, Little Pig's eyes begin to droop. Will he be able to keep their boat trip on track and guide them safely to shore? It's an awful lot for an adult to shoulder, let alone a "little pig"..... but this is no ordinary piggy, and his companions are no ordinary friends.

When I first saw this book in the Peachtree Publishers catalog, I thought to myself, now that has to be a cute story indeed. (Yes, I do think the way I speak/type.) From the moment I glimpsed the cover art upon the books arrival, my first feelings were confirmed. This book is a great story for younger readers or perhaps a family reading night. The relationship between the characters is unique...I mean how often do a turkey, goat, and pig hang out together. Old Goat and Turkey are portrayed as the older and wiser pair, while Little Pig is more of a child filled with wonder and awe. Although they are two dimensional, within the short span of pages the story is explored, the author shows through simple words and beautiful illustrations just how to bring them to life through the power of our own imaginations. All in all, a charming tale that is sure to win the hearts of young readers round the world while imparting a heart felt message on the true value of friendship.....for what child wouldn't want to be Captain of their own "ship" and chart a course to adventure?

Review copy courtesy of Peachtree Publishers. (THANKS!) For more information about this and many more great titles for readers of all ages, check out their website, blog, or follow along on Twitter! As of the time of this review, the scheduled release date was March 1st, 2010.
 
Until next time....happy reading!

4 comments:

  1. Great review! You hit the nail on the head. It is a very quiet and unassuming book, but lovely. My favorite part is when Small Pig wants to fish for whales in the lake and catches a boot. I could seem myself doing that as a kid!

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  2. Erin: LOL. Yes, I loved that part too, as well as Small Pig's desire to try EVERYTHING! As we get older, we tend to lose a little bit of that innocent desire, that fire...books like these help to keep to aglow for the next generation! Thanks for stopping by! =0)

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  3. This sounds fabulous! Great review of what looks like a great book. It's crazy, but kids can think of the craziest things to do and it sounds like the author of this book has captured that in his book. Can't wait to check it out!

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  4. The1stdaughter: Well stated....I think it might be something your Turkeybird and even Littlebug may enjoy! =0)

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