The Three Ninja Pigs by Corey Rosen Schwartz

Book Review of 

 

Bibliography

Schwartz, C. R. (2012). The three ninja pigs. G.P. Putnam's Sons. ISBN 9780399255144

Plot Summary

Three little pigs decide to get rid of the town bully once and for all. A clever plan to attend ninja school and learn some ninja skills sounds like just the right means of defense! Once training begins, however, two of the little pigs quickly decide they’ve learned just enough to defeat that big, bad bully. The third little pig does not concede so quickly and continues diligently with her ninja training. Soon, after overpowering the first two little pigs, the third little pig's newly acquired Japanese fighting skills are put to the test. Readers will find out just how much her diligence pays off. 

Critical Analysis

Corey Rosen Schwartz’s twist on the classic fairytale of The Three Little Pigs is one that will have readers coming back again and again. Set once upon a time, an action-packed plot in overcoming the big, bad wolf is humorously spun into a fractured fairytale in which good overcomes evil. Complete with a strong female character saving the day against the evil wolf, Schwartz’s use of rhythm and rhyme lures the reader in. This amusing read also includes a glossary of Japanese martial arts terms. Dan Santat’s cultural depiction of Japanese culture envelops the reader and adds to the appeal of the tale. The use of facial expressions and movement helps to engage the reader. Readers of all ages will be fascinated by this unique spin on the classic fairytale of The Three Little Pigs. 

Review Excerpt(s)
"A fractured fairy tale to outcharm the original, “The Three Ninja Pigs” manages to one-up the well-worn story by setting it in Japan, sprinkling it with the language and discipline of martial arts. All in hilarious, impeccable rhyme." — The New York Times Book Review
"For young martial arts fans seeking a lighthearted book about their hobby, Schwartz’s story should fit the bill. . . . The idea of three gi-clad pigs fighting the big bad wolf is a winner." — Publishers Weekly

Connections
For additional activities related to the book:

• Discuss with children what cause and effect are. Continue by discussing different cause and effect elements of the book.
• Discuss with children the different houses each pig had. Have children create their own house that the Big Bad Wolf cannot destroy on paper and color.
• Read the original story of The Three Little Pigs (if children have not already heard it) and discuss the similarities and differences between each story.

Other recommended books if you liked this one:

• Ninja Red Riding Hood by Corey Rosen Schwartz
• The True Story of the Three Little Pigs by Jon Scieszka
• The Three Little Aliens and the Big Bad Robot by Margaret McNamara