Abe Lincoln and the Muddy Pig: Ready-to-Read Level 2 : Book Review

"Abe Lincoln and the Muddy Pig" by Stephen Krensky is a charming children's book that follows the story of a young Abraham Lincoln and his amusing encounter with a muddy pig. The book beautifully captures Lincoln's endearing character, showcasing his determination and compassion for animals. With its engaging illustrations and well-crafted narrative, this book is sure to captivate young readers and spark their interest in history.

The story begins with young Abe Lincoln stumbling upon a stray pig covered in mud. Despite facing ridicule from his friends, Abe takes it upon himself to rescue the pig and clean it up. This demonstrates Lincoln's empathy and kindness, even at a young age. Krensky skillfully highlights this aspect of Lincoln's character, portraying him as a positive role model for children.

The illustrations in this book are enchanting and vibrant, bringing the story and characters to life. They greatly enhance the reading experience and help younger readers visualize the events in the story. The artwork perfectly complements the narrative, making it easy for children to follow along and remain engaged throughout.

Another notable aspect of this book is its subtle introduction of historical figures and events. While the main focus is on young Abe Lincoln, Krensky seamlessly weaves in elements of his later life and presidency, such as Lincoln's interest in law and his famous Gettysburg Address. This not only makes the book entertaining but also educational, providing children with a glimpse into American history.

In conclusion, "Abe Lincoln and the Muddy Pig" by Stephen Krensky is a delightful children's book that effectively combines history with a heartwarming and humorous story. The well-crafted narrative, captivating illustrations, and underlying message of empathy and kindness make it a must-read for young readers. This book teaches valuable lessons while entertaining children, making it a valuable addition to any child's bookshelf.

What are readers saying?

The book "Abe Lincoln and the Muddy Pig" by Stephen Krensky has garnered a range of opinions from readers. Overall, the story presents a humorous and fictional account of a young Abraham Lincoln encountering a muddy pig. On average, the book received a rating of 3.59 out of 5 stars based on various reviews.

Many reviewers enjoyed the lighthearted and amusing nature of the story, finding it engaging and imaginative. They particularly appreciated the humorous dialogue and charming illustrations, which added to the overall appeal of the book. However, some reviewers felt that the story lacked depth and substance. They found the plot to be simplistic and wished for more informative and educational content about Abraham Lincoln's life and achievements.

Additionally, a few readers criticized the uneven pacing of the story, with certain parts feeling rushed or abrupt. They suggested that a more developed plot and deeper characterizations could have enhanced the book. Some reviewers also mentioned that the book may be more suited for younger readers, as older children might not find it as captivating.

Despite these criticisms, many readers still found "Abe Lincoln and the Muddy Pig" to be an enjoyable and entertaining read. They appreciated the book for what it was—a light-hearted fictional story—and considered it a fun introduction to Abraham Lincoln for younger audiences. Overall, while the book may not fulfill some readers' expectations in terms of historical context or depth, it still manages to provide an engaging and amusing experience.