Piggy Handsome: Guinea Pig Destined for Stardom!

This book is nothing short of a delight. Who could not fall in love with a portly little guinea pig with a hugely inflated sense of his own importance? He likes to keep his quiff impeccably groomed, is not averse to donning a superhero cape in the interests of self-publicity and likes to think that he is something of a kung fu expert, even though the best he can manage is a cartwheel, a roly-poly and a few star jumps. Piggy is feeling the pressure of having some very illustrious ancestors and so longs to prove just how brilliant he is. His best friend, Jeff, a cockney budgie, does his best to support Piggy Handsome in his quest to become an internet sensation and all round global superstar but this is looking increasingly unlikely. The ensuing adventure is both charming and hilarious and is sure to have young readers aged 6+ in stitches. The illustrations by Adam Stower add to the quirky humour of the story and I hooted with laughter at the sight of Piggy with his freshly coiffed vertical quiff; what a character! I challenge you to keep a straight face as Piggy attempts to break the world hula hooping record and when he is careering towards the seafront with Jeff alongside him via his chosen mode of transport: a runaway roller boot. Finally, I should say that I have added Piggy's expletive of choice ('Oh, PARSNIPS!') to my own repertoire. A piggytastic five stars to Piggy Handsome! 188 pages / Ages 6-9 / Reviewed by Emily Marcuccilli, School Librarian

Suggested Reading Age 5+