
Anthony Browne's "A Piggybook" is a clever and visually rich picture book that explores themes of family responsibility, gender roles, and appreciation. The Piggott men, Mr. Piggott and his two sons, Simon and Patrick, lead a comfortable life, expecting Mrs. Piggott to do all the housework. When she finally leaves a note saying "You are pigs" and disappears, the remaining family members find themselves literally transforming into pigs as their home descends into chaos. This modern cautionary tale uses surreal imagery and subtle humor to prompt discussions about fairness, teamwork, and the value of everyone's contributions within a family. It's suitable for children aged 4-11, offering layers of meaning for different ages.
What a nice life the Piggott family has! Little Simon and Patrick Piggott go to a very important school. Mr. Piggott works at a very important job. And Mrs. Piggott does everything else. She washes for them, irons for them, cleans for them, and is always home from work to cook for them at the end of their busy days. But one evening Mrs. Piggott is nowhere to be found. The only trace is a mysterious note left on the mantlepiece that says, "You are pigs." Now what will the Piggotts do? Already everything and everyone has started to change in the most peculiar way. Young and old alike will rejoice when the Piggotts get their just desserts in this modern cautionary tale. Once again, award-winning author/artist Anthony Browne has fused fantasy and reality to create a humorous, deeply satisfying book that may just transform the entire family. - Back cover.