The Sheep Pig

In all of Dick King-Smith's books there is a relationship between man and beast that is exceptional in fantasy involving the animal world. Each retains its rightful place and rightful dignity, looks at the strange quirks of the other, shrugs and accepts. The Sheep Pig (last year's Guardian Award winner) is no exception. When Babe, the young pig, is won at the local fair by Farmer Hogget he is taken in hand by Fly the sheep-dog and quite unintentionally becomes a sheep-pig. It is a funny tale, amusing in the techniques that are adopted by Babe and not in any way degrading. Babe proves, not only to be adept enough to win a national trial, but concerned enough for the animals he must herd, the 'stupid' sheep, to befriend them and politely win their cooperation. He rescues them from rustlers and worrying dogs and, with a grin on his face, Farmer Hogget takes it all in his stride. The characters are beautifully developed. A Cheerful, thoroughly satisfying read, much loved by all the Dick King-Smith fans I know and new addicts. It is very gratifying to hear this author's name requested so often in library and bookshop.