Little Oink does not make much noise because he is the anti-pig. Instead of the stereotypical ham he is a neatnik, and that is such a contradiction that it makes for a nice diversion. Little Oink may or may not be the favorite book of parents or adults because it might remind them of their own litter. Young children should identify with the character and will certainly be able to draw some comparisons of their own. Everyone will applaud the ending.
The illustrations are bright, intriguing and well organized to accompany the cleverly written text. The movement of the illustrations and the ample use of plain white pages reinforce the cleanliness of Little Oink even when he is trying to be messy.
The best uses of this book are likely to be in homes, daycares, and pre-kindergarten classrooms because of the subject and the topic. In its most basic form Little Oink is a concept book that will receive occasional use. One possible extension might include the book as part of a larger unit on pigs. Everyone needs to know why pigs like mud, right? Pigs need to wallow in the mud to stay cool because they do not have sweat glands. Read this book aloud with some children and see if it stirs up a stink in your neighborhood.
John Parker
Media Coordinator
Andrews High School
50 HS Drive
Andrews, NC 28901
