The Sheep-Pig

by Dick King-Smith
The Sheep-Pig cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Children's Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 806
  • Added: 2025-09-20
  • Updated: 2025-09-21
  • ISBN: 9780141302539
  • Publisher: Puffin
  • Published: 1999-01-28
  • Formats: 25
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £7.99

When Farmer Hogget wins a piglet at the local fair, Mrs. Hogget plans to fatten it up for the freezer. However, the old sheepdog, Fly, has other ideas and takes the piglet under her wing, training him to be a sheep-pig. The piglet's unconventional methods of herding sheep quickly become the talk of the farm. This charming story explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the unexpected bonds that form between different kinds of animals. /n/nThe Sheep-Pig is a delightful and humorous tale that captures the imagination of readers with its whimsical characters and heartwarming narrative. The book is beautifully illustrated, adding to the overall charm and appeal of the story. It's a perfect read for children and adults alike, offering a blend of adventure and comedy that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

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

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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