David Edminister
Outskirts Press (2010)
ISBN 9781432753450
Reviewed by Zoey Crane (age 6) and her Nana for Reader Views (07/10)
“Pork Chop” is a beautifully illustrated book with a good lesson for kids and adults alike – easy to read, yet challenging and promotes discussion. This is the story of Pork Chop who was a tad bit overweight and didn’t have much self confidence. His favorite story of all time was “The Three Little Pigs.” Even though he loved the story, he had bad dreams about the big bad wolf coming into his home and eating his family. Finally, he decides that he is going to eat healthy, exercise and not be afraid. Due to his perseverance, he is able to overcome his fear and save a kind old lady and become a hero.
Zoey’s comments: “I loved the pictures; it was like someone colored them. It was easy to read except for a few words I didn’t know. The wolf was kinda funny when he said ‘Put up your paws.’ Porter took karate and was very good at it. That’s what I want to do- take karate so I won’t be afraid. He learned he has to eat healthy and exercise – no junk food. He saved an old lady by using his karate. But you should never hit someone because it’s fun- only if you are protecting yourself.”
Nana: We enjoyed reading this book together – first we looked at the pictures, which Zoey loved. She said they can color as good as me. She understood the story and what it was about, but she did have some difficulty with some of the words, like “senile.” So I explained the words to her and then we discussed the book and options Porter had.
I do think this book is a bit over Zoey’s head in some ways – I would say 9 and up for ages. But she did enjoy reading “Pork Chop” and my daughter will use it in her class next year.
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