Half a Pig
What’s inside...
Full of good words and even better pictures, this book covers many different types of weather, amazing characters, chases, picnics and best of all - half a pig! Well, two halves actually, and it may even have a hippopotamus in it! Allan Ahlberg cuts to the chase in this madcap tale illustrated by his daughter, Jessica Ahlberg, in her picture-book debut. Allan Ahlberg cuts to the chase in this madcap tale illustrated by his daughter, Jessica Ahlberg, in her picture-book debut. The horrid Mr. Harbottle eats so many sausages he’s beginning to look like one. And now he even has designs on poor Esmerelda, a pig half-owned by the (former) Mrs. Harbottle. In the hands of Allan Ahlberg, this can only mean the chase is on! Featuring the brave young Rose and Billy (still in their pajamas), and peppered with author asides, Half a Pig is one entirely silly celebration of porcine justice.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the detective felt when he realized half the pig was missing?
Why is it important to solve problems, like the mystery of the missing half pig?
What would you have done if you were in the detective’s shoes?
How do you think cooperation helped the characters in the story?
What did you learn from the story about sharing and fairness?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own views on the book's humor and mystery elements. Encourage your child to think critically by asking them what clues they noticed in the story. Discuss the moral lessons in the book, such as the importance of solving problems and cooperating with others. Lastly, relate the story to your child’s own experiences of sharing and fairness to deepen their understanding and personal connection.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: In 'Half a Pig', the protagonist creatively solves the mystery of the missing half of his pig, showcasing ingenuity and determination.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think critically and find solutions to problems they encounter in school or during play.
Example Lesson: Importance of honesty
Explanation: The story emphasizes the value of being truthful, as characters face consequences when they are not honest.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the significance of honesty in building trust and maintaining healthy relationships with peers and adults.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Characters in the book collaborate to solve the mystery, highlighting how working together can lead to successful outcomes.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to cooperate with others, be it during group activities in school or in team sports.
Example Lesson: Justice
Explanation: The book portrays a fair resolution in the end, reinforcing the concept of justice and right versus wrong.
Real-World Application: Kids learn about the importance of fairness and justice in their interactions with others and the consequences of their actions.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: The imaginative plot and characters encourage readers to think outside the box and enjoy creative storytelling.
Real-World Application: This helps children develop their imaginative skills, enhancing their creative writing and storytelling abilities in school assignments or hobbies.