Business Pig
on Goodreads (300)
What’s inside...
Jasper the Business Pig is not like his siblings who enjoy playing in the mud. Instead, he prefers activities like drawing graphs, bookkeeping, and conducting meetings. Despite being loved by everyone at the animal sanctuary, Jasper longs for a forever home where he can find someone who appreciates his business-minded nature. As he hands out business cards in hopes of finding the right adopter, Jasper wonders if he will ever meet someone who means business just like him.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Jasper felt when he was trying to find his special skill?
What do you think makes Jasper different from the other animals on the farm?
Why do you think the business suit was important for Jasper?
How do you think the animals at the farm felt about Jasper's ideas?
What would you have done if you were Jasper?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate to Jasper by discussing a time they felt different and how they dealt with it.
Ask your child about a unique skill they have, just like Jasper found his own.
Discuss the importance of perseverance shown by Jasper and ask for examples when your child persevered.
Explore the theme of acceptance by discussing how the other animals eventually appreciate Jasper’s uniqueness.
Prompt your child to think creatively by asking what business they would start if they were in Jasper's position.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Uniqueness
Explanation: In 'Business Pig,' Jasper, a pig born in a business suit, stands out among his peers. This difference is celebrated rather than shunned, showing children that being unique is a strength.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by recognizing and valuing their own unique qualities and those of others around them, promoting self-confidence and diversity acceptance.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: Jasper uses his business acumen to find his way to a suitable home. Throughout the story, his innovative thinking and strategic planning are highlighted.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the importance of thinking critically and creatively to solve problems, which can be applied in school projects, family activities, or resolving conflicts with friends.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Despite facing challenges in fitting in and finding a family, Jasper does not give up. His persistence is a central theme in the story.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persistence in achieving goals, whether they relate to academic achievements, sports, or personal projects.
Example Lesson: Importance of Support System
Explanation: The farm animals and humans in Jasper’s life play a significant role in his journey. Their support showcases the impact of having a reliable support system.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and rely on the support from family, friends, and teachers, understanding how it aids in overcoming obstacles and achieving success.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: Jasper adapts his business skills to fit into the farm environment and later to find a family that appreciates him.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children learn to adjust to new situations, whether it’s moving to a new school, dealing with changes at home, or participating in different group activities.