After reviewing Patricia Allieri's "Aqua Paws", I was excited to dive into her latest work, "My Pig Thinks He's A Panda". This fun and educational children's book is yet another hit from the indie author, combining whimsical storytelling with quirky facts, sure to delight young readers and adults alike. Scroll down to learn more!
Title: My Pig Thinks He's A Panda
Author: Patricia Allieri
Illustrator: Novel Varius
Publisher: Aqua Kids Books
Release Date: October 1, 2024
Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook
Pages: 32
About the book:
Can a pig really become a panda? Find out in this laugh-out-loud adventure!
Meet Piggie-Panda, the charming pet pig with a whimsical imagination in "My Pig Thinks He's a Panda." This delightful picture book is filled with colorful illustrations and a fun, rhyming story that will captivate young readers. With only 250 words, it's perfect for bedtime or a quick giggle-filled storytime.
Follow Piggie-Panda on his hilarious adventures as he tries to prove he's a panda. Along the way, children will enjoy the rhythmic text, engaging clues, and fascinating facts about pandas and pigs. Patricia's love for these animals shines through, making this book joyful for kids and parents alike.
Bring home the magic of Piggie-Panda today!
My Review
In My Pig Thinks He's A Panda, we follow the hilarious journey of a pet pig who believes he's destined to live like a panda. This leads to a series of amusing events, with our pig protagonist trying to adopt panda-like habits—from rolling around like a panda to munching on bamboo (or at least trying to!). It's a fun concept that captures kids’ imaginations, all while subtly teaching them about the differences between pigs and pandas.
But it’s not just about the laughs! At the end of the book, Allieri includes a well-researched section comparing these two animals, highlighting both their similarities and differences. My favorite fact? Pandas poop a lot—around 40 times a day! (Yes, you read that right!) It’s the kind of fun trivia that makes kids giggle and remember the story long after they've closed the book.
Review:
One of the standout features of My Pig Thinks He's A Panda is its lively and fun illustrations. The pictures are vibrant and playful, which helps bring the story to life in a way that’s sure to capture any child’s attention. As a teacher, I find that great illustrations can really make a difference in keeping kids engaged, and this book nails it. Each page is filled with colorful, dynamic art that complements the silly scenarios the pig gets himself into.
Allieri also does a fantastic job with her blend of fiction and fact. I really appreciated the educational aspect at the end of the book, where she outlines some interesting pig and panda trivia. It’s a smart touch that adds value, giving kids (and their parents) something to talk about after the story is over. The comparison of the two animals is well thought out, from their diets and habitats to their quirky habits.
However, I would have loved to see a few more comparisons woven into the main narrative itself. As a teacher, I think there’s great potential for integrating more of those fun facts into the story, which could have deepened the educational aspect without taking away from the humor. But that’s more of a personal preference, and it certainly doesn’t take away from the joy of the book.
What I Loved:
Illustrations: They’re fun, vibrant, and really bring the characters to life. The pig’s attempts to act like a panda are hilarious, and the art enhances those moments.
Educational Facts: The comparison of pigs and pandas at the end of the book is a great touch, giving kids some cool trivia to take away. And who doesn’t love a good poop fact? 😂
Engaging Story: The lighthearted and humorous tone makes this a great read-aloud book that will keep young kids giggling.
What Could Have Been Better:
While I loved the fact section at the end, I wish there were more comparisons between pigs and pandas woven directly into the storyline. This would have added more depth to the narrative, especially for a teaching moment. Still, that’s a small critique in an otherwise charming and delightful read!
Final Thoughts:
Overall, My Pig Thinks He's A Panda is a wonderfully entertaining book for kids and teachers alike. It’s the perfect blend of humor, cute illustrations, and educational value, with just enough fun facts to spark curiosity. Whether you’re reading it to your kids at bedtime or using it as a learning tool in the classroom, this book is a winner!
Patricia Allieri has once again created a story that is both fun and informative, with a lovable pig at the center. While I’d love to see even more educational content in the narrative, the fun factor of this book is undeniable.
Highly recommended for kids ages 3-7, especially those who love animals or have a curious mind about nature.
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟½
About the author:
Award-winning author Patricia Allieri is an elementary school educator. Her book characters Puppy-Cat and Aqua Paws have been recipients of the Mom’s Choice Award, the Feathered Quill Book Award, and the Purple Dragonfly Book Award; "Aqua Paws" appeared on Dawn’s Corner and iRead Book Tours.
You can connect with Patricia via her website: https://www.aquakidsbooks.com/
Novel Varius has been a freelance children's book illustrator since 2016. His illustrations have appeared in many works such as "The Adventures of Arrow: Dreams Come True", "What to Do When We Feel Anxious", "A Fun Day Out With Dad", "I Love You More Than Yesterday..." and many more. Learn more about Novel by visiting his website or following him on Instagram @Novpixel
I love the fun facts! Great book for young readers!