Hooks writes his own version of the famous tale of the three
little pigs grown up. The two eldest (males) have become too large by their overeating and are
prompted by Mama to go out and seek their fortune.
I like the humour in
this story. The opening tells of a very long time ago, ‘..back when the animals
could talk around these parts.’ The
adjectives used to describe the fox are a treat and he known to the pigs as ‘…mean, tricky old drooly-mouth fox.’
In comparison with
the original version of the three pigs, this Appalachian version has names for
each pig and certain traits about their personalities. For example, Oinker is a
Mama’s boy.
There is repetition
in this story, as in the original version. Mama Pig: ‘It’s time you set out to seek your
fortune’. Also: ‘You’ll be fine if you remember three things.’
Rooter (the first pig) is met by the fox while he has decided
to sit down to eat. Against his mother’s warning he doesn’t watch out for the
fox as he is obsessed with eating.
His brother is none-the-wiser and both pigs are taken
captive.
As Sundays pass, the season changes, and Hooks alerts the
reader to the fact in this way ‘The leaves turned all red and gold, and the
nights got real nippy.’
Baby Hamlet is the pig with the difference. She initiates
leaving home instead of being prompted as the other two were. Hamlet recites to
Mama what Mama’s advice was to her brothers.
Hamlet’s character is even more impressive. She is on the
alert for the fox and when he does come to her she is ready. She is not only
the only one out of the three to build her house, but I love the ending where
she is sharp enough to quickly outsmart the fox. She gains information from him
enough to know where her brothers are being held prisoners, and goes on to
rescue them.
The story could be read for reception to year 2
students. The original version could be read as well and it would be interesting
for students to compare and contrast the two stories. They may be able to think
of an alternative ending or write an Australian version of the story after
brainstorming things like traditional Australian foods and phrases.
Alex
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