Summary
John and Lorraine are two high school friends, both of whom struggle with their home lives. In The Pigman, they tell the story of their experience befriending a lonely old man. Mr. Pignati lives alone in a house full of oddities. John and Lorraine spend an increasing amount of time with Mr. Pignati, whom they christen The Pigman.
John and Lorraine are two high school friends, both of whom struggle with their home lives. In The Pigman, they tell the story of their experience befriending a lonely old man. Mr. Pignati lives alone in a house full of oddities. John and Lorraine spend an increasing amount of time with Mr. Pignati, whom they christen The Pigman.
Evaluative
comments
The Pigman is a classic young adult novel, having retained its popularity for 40 years. Its most interesting aspect is that it switches back and forth between John and Lorraine as narrators. As a result, the two characters are both given a clear, developed voice, and readers gain insight into both of their perspectives. The contrast between their narrative styles also gives the book a fresh tone. The story is interesting, but suffers from its short length. It feels as though as the reader is being drawn in, the story ends quite abruptly. Despite this, it is interesting to read for the portrayal of the characters alone.
The Pigman is a classic young adult novel, having retained its popularity for 40 years. Its most interesting aspect is that it switches back and forth between John and Lorraine as narrators. As a result, the two characters are both given a clear, developed voice, and readers gain insight into both of their perspectives. The contrast between their narrative styles also gives the book a fresh tone. The story is interesting, but suffers from its short length. It feels as though as the reader is being drawn in, the story ends quite abruptly. Despite this, it is interesting to read for the portrayal of the characters alone.
Suggested audience
Grades 7-10
Grades 7-10
Reader’s advisory notes
Appeal terms - Offbeat, sarcastic, amusing, conversational, experimental
Read-alikes - The Pigman's Legacy, Paul Zindel (sequel); John Belushi is Dead, Kathy Charles
Appeal terms - Offbeat, sarcastic, amusing, conversational, experimental
Read-alikes - The Pigman's Legacy, Paul Zindel (sequel); John Belushi is Dead, Kathy Charles
Booktalking hook
Read prank phone call with Mr. Pignati passage: pp. 22-28
Read prank phone call with Mr. Pignati passage: pp. 22-28
Reason for inclusion
Enduring classic; included in YALSA's "Ultimate YA Bookshelf"
Awards and Honours - ALA Best of the Best Books for Young Adults; New York Times Outstanding Book of the Year
Category
Historical/Classic, Realistic
Historical/Classic, Realistic
