Pig the Winner (Pig the Pug #2)

Fans of Pig the Pug will enjoy this follow-up story about this feisty pup. This time around, Pig has to win at everything. Even if it's not a competition, the pug turns it into one. Whether by cheating or throwing a temper tantrum, Pig must be declared the winner. His attitude begins to affect his friendship with Trevor the dachshund. One night, while the two are having dinner, Pig declares an eating competition. Thinking only of winning, Pig eats so fast that he swallows his bowl. It's a good thing Trevor is there to give him the Heimlich maneuver and save his life. Instead of a thank you though, Pig yells "I won!" just as the flying bowl bounces back and bops him on the head. In the end, viewers see Pig with a bandaged head, who is more at ease with the idea of losing—sometimes. Cartoon illustrations of this expressive bug-eyed-pug bring Pig's eccentric character to life. Readers are guaranteed to either love or hate him, but will definitely not feel indifferent. Minimal background allows the characters to really carry the story. VERDICT The important lesson of playing fair and winning (and losing) gracefully is one that everyone should learn, and who better than Pig to teach it? A great addition for storytime collections.—Emily E. Lazio, The New York Public Library