Amy Axelrod

Synopsis: This book tells the story of the Pig family as they try to cook a favorite dish for Mama, who is sick in bed. Papa and the piglets don’t know their way around the kitchen, and their attempt to make Mama’s favorite recipe results in the fire brigade coming to the house. The book features a full recipe and instructions as well as a list of cooking terms that Papa would have been wise to have learned beforehand. Grades K-5.

Response: To a mother reading this book, it seems to be a horrifying and tragic tale of a Mother’s woes; she cannot rest, even when she is ill, because no one in the house knows how to do anything competently without her. To a child hearing the story it will be a silly misadventure with Papa nearly burning down the house. This book can be a light-hearted way to introduce students to measurement and cooking terms.… (mehr)

Synopsis: This book tells the story of the Pig family as they participate in a community Square Dance. Papa Pig must fill in as a replacement Square Dance Caller and he really brings down the house. The story includes the rules of Square Dance calling, as well as some Square Dance terms and a diagram to help readers learn the basics of the dance. Grades K-5.

Response: This book could serve as a fun introduction to Square Dancing or any figure-based dance, and includes simple skip counting by twos. The jolly illustrations will appeal to young readers.… (mehr)