The Sheep-Pig

by Dick King-Smith
The Sheep-Pig cover
Good Books rating 4.31
Children's Fiction
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Paperback • £7.99
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  • ID: 806
  • Added: 2025-09-20
  • Updated: 2025-10-13
  • ISBN: 9780141389066
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 2017-07-06
  • Formats: 25
  • Reviews: 4

The Sheep-Pig is a beloved children's story by Dick King-Smith, renowned for his engaging and humorous animal tales. The story follows Babe, an orphaned piglet who is adopted by Fly, a kind-hearted sheep-dog. Babe is determined to learn everything he can from Fly and dreams of becoming a sheep-pig, leading to a series of charming and unexpected adventures. /n/n Dick King-Smith's experiences as a farmer in Gloucestershire heavily influenced his writing, and The Sheep-Pig is no exception. The book won the Guardian Fiction Award and was adapted into the acclaimed film Babe, further cementing its place in children's literature. King-Smith's work has been celebrated for its ability to captivate young readers with its blend of humor and heart.

Reviews
Primary Book Reviews · 2019-01-30
delightful 4.50

The book closely mirrors the film, offering a heartwarming tale of an orphaned piglet discovering his identity. The reviewer appreciates the faithful adaptation and the touching story.

This reviewer was delighted to find that the book stays remarkably true to the beloved film, which is a rare occurrence. They highlight the heartwarming journey of Babe, the orphaned piglet, as he navigates his identity and finds his place in the world. The simplicity and charm of the story are praised, making it a delightful read for both children and adults. The reviewer enjoys how the book captures the essence of the film, bringing the same warmth and humor to the page.

Quick quotes

    The book is remarkably similar to the film (a rare occurrence I find!)

    Tells a heart-warming tale of an orphaned piglet finding his identity

    Following his adventures on the farm is a joy

Writerly Bookish Stuff · 2017-12-22
poignant 4.50

The book handles the themes of life and death in farm life brilliantly, making it a poignant and thought-provoking read.

The reviewer commends the book for its handling of life and death themes, which are common in children's literature but handled brilliantly here. They note that the story provides a truthful and poignant look at farm life, making it a thought-provoking read. The reviewer also appreciates the gentle humor and the way the story is told, making it a delightful and meaningful experience for readers of all ages.

Quick quotes

    Life and death are fairly common themes in children's literature now, and The Sheep Pig handles the truth of farm life brilliantly.

    We are not shielded from the harsh realities of farm life, but the story is told in a way that is both honest and gentle.

    The characters are well-developed and the narrative is engaging, making it a book that will stay with you long after you've finished reading.

Single White Female Writer · 2016-06-27
charming 4.00

The book is sweet and understated, with its beauty lying in its simplicity. It is an easy and quick read for adults and not much more difficult for children.

This reviewer finds the book to be a sweet and understated gem, appreciating its simplicity and gentle humor. They note that it is an easy and quick read for adults, making it accessible for both children and grown-ups. The simplicity of the story is seen as its strength, allowing the charm and warmth of the tale to shine through. The reviewer enjoys how the book's short chapters make it ideal for early confident readers, adding to its overall appeal.

Quick quotes

    It is sweet and understated but its beauty lies in its simplicity

    An easy, quick read for an adult and not that much more difficult for a child

    The short chapters make it ideal for early confident readers

Hands Full Mama · 2015-07-05
heartwarming 4.25

The story is very sweet and demonstrates wonderful qualities through the character of Babe. It is enjoyed by both children and adults alike.

This reviewer found the story to be very sweet and enjoyed how it highlights the wonderful qualities of the main character, Babe. They appreciate the gentle humor and the heartwarming moments that make the book enjoyable for both children and adults. The reviewer notes that the story's simplicity and charm make it a delightful read, with Babe's good manners and determination serving as inspiring themes. Overall, they found the book to be a delightful and heartwarming tale that captures the essence of friendship and perseverance.

Quick quotes

    This was a very sweet story

    Babe demonstrates some wonderful qualities

    He uses good manners to achieve his goals

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