Pigs in Heaven

by Barbara Kingsolver
Pigs in Heaven cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Contemporary Fiction
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Paperback • £9.99
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  • ID: 10668
  • Added: 2026-02-02
  • Updated: 2026-02-03
  • Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
  • Published: 1993-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Pigs in Heaven continues the journey of Taylor and Turtle, introduced in The Bean Trees, as they navigate the complexities of family and identity. Their lives take an unexpected turn when they witness an event that could forever change their futures. The novel delves into themes of heartbreak, love, and the multifaceted truths of human existence, all while exploring the enduring connections that define us. /n/n Barbara Kingsolver's acclaimed storytelling weaves a tapestry of emotional depth and social commentary, making Pigs in Heaven a compelling exploration of what it means to belong and to love. The book is not just a continuation of a story but a standalone exploration of the human condition, set against the backdrop of contemporary America.

Reviews
The Nature of Things · 2024-10-29
poignant 4.50

The novel is a poignant exploration of family and identity, with characters that feel deeply human and relatable. The story is both heartwarming and thought-provoking, offering a rich tapestry of human experiences.

In 'Pigs in Heaven,' Barbara Kingsolver crafts a narrative that is both heartwarming and introspective. The characters are deeply human, making their struggles and triumphs resonate with readers. The story explores themes of belonging and cultural heritage, offering a rich tapestry of human experiences. Kingsolver's writing is lyrical, and the emotional depth is profound, making it a compelling read for those who appreciate character-driven stories. The novel invites reflection on the bonds that define us and the challenges that shape our lives, making it a poignant exploration of family and identity.

Quick quotes

    Kingsolver at her best. ... Poignant and beautifully written, with some lovely turns of phrase and deeply perceptive insights into human nature.

    The characters are unique and descriptions make this story come alive. Kingsolver continues to a superb storyteller with the ability to craft images.

    The plot in this one was a perfect blend of heartwarming and thought-provoking.

Bound2Books · 2020-04-01
insightful 4.50

Kingsolver's characters are relatable and engaging, making the story resonate with readers on a personal level. The narrative is a celebration of mothers and daughters, offering a unique perspective on family dynamics.

Barbara Kingsolver's 'Pigs in Heaven' is a beautifully crafted novel that explores the intricate relationships between mothers and daughters. The characters are relatable and engaging, making their stories feel deeply personal. The narrative celebrates the bonds of family while also challenging traditional Western ideas of what family should be. Kingsolver's writing is both insightful and emotive, creating a story that resonates with readers long after the last page. The book offers a unique perspective on the complexities of family dynamics, making it a compelling read for those who enjoy character-driven stories.

Quick quotes

    Kingsolver always writes extremely interesting and relatable characters. It is what made me fall in love with her writing, and is what keeps me coming back.

    The book also makes a commentary that traditional Western ideas of family and motherhood are not the only valid ones.

    Kingsolver imbues her characters, even the less likable ones, with believable humanity. We care about them and their story and we want things to work out for them.

Stuck in a Book · 2018-11-19
heartwarming 4.00

The story captures the essence of family and identity, weaving together a narrative that is both poignant and thought-provoking. The characters are deeply human, making their struggles and triumphs resonate with readers.

In 'Pigs in Heaven,' Barbara Kingsolver delves into the complexities of family and identity, creating a narrative that is both heartwarming and introspective. The characters are crafted with such authenticity that their journeys feel deeply personal. The story explores themes of belonging and cultural heritage, offering a rich tapestry of human experiences. It's a book that invites reflection on the bonds that define us and the challenges that shape our lives. The prose is lyrical, and the emotional depth is profound, making it a compelling read for those who appreciate character-driven stories.

Quick quotes

    The main thing you need to know from that novel is that Taylor adopted young Native American girl called Turtle, given to her by a stranger in a car park.

    Kingsolver's writing is both poignant and beautifully written, with some lovely turns of phrase and deeply perceptive insights into human nature.

    The characters are unique and descriptions make this story come alive.

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