It’s a Big World, Little Pig! by Kristi Yamaguchi is the story of Poppy the Pig and her journey to the Paris to compete in the World Games! If you aren’t familiar with Poppy, who was featured in “Dream Big Little Pig!”, she is a persistent porker who keeps trying new things until she finds her dream which happens to be ice skating.
The catch phrase in the book is “we all smile in the same language”. This message, delivered by Poppy’s friend Emma prior to her departure for Paris, is reinforced as Poppy meets World Games competitors from other countries. They all look different and speak different languages. Poppy overcomes her fear of not making any friends and gradually builds confidence prior to her event. I love this message. We live in a multi-cultural community and as early as preschool my children are aware that other kids look different and speak differently. This book definitely drives home the point that we all have feelings and smiles are universal.
Another great message in this book is the encouragement Poppy receives from her family. Every family member is interested in Poppy and they all provide encouraging words for Poppy to follow her dream.
My kids really enjoyed this book. They liked Poppy’s costume and smiled at the different characters. While I’m not sure they fully absorbed the message in a single read I know this book will help foster a strong sense of their ability to accomplish anything they set out to.
It’s a Big World, Little Pig! is set for release on March 6th, 2012. When you purchase it 100% of Kristi Yamaguchi’s profits will benefit early childhood literacy programs supported by her Always Dream Foundation.
It’s a Big World, Little Pig! is available for pre-order from Amazon.
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