Ace: Very Important Pig

Once again, King-Smith recounts the adventures of a highly unusual pig in this fanciful sequel to Babe: The Gallant Pig , which introduces Babe's great-grandson Ace. Much to the amazement of the other barnyard animals, Ace understands the language of human beings and, although his own vocabulary is limited to a few snorts, squeals and grunts, communicates quite well with his owner, Farmer Tubbs. As time goes by, Ace starts to act more like a person than a pig. He sits in the farmer's most comfortable chair, watches educational TV, rides in the front seat of the truck and even visits the local pub. When word of the remarkable pig spreads throughout the countryside and Ace becomes a celebrity, fame does not go to his head. In the end he is content to lead a quiet life on the farm. Readers will recognize many parallels between this book and its predecessor, yet fresh characterizations and new plot twists prevent old concepts from growing stale. Emerging as a gentle parody of human behavior, this winsome story is sure to warm hearts and bring smiles. Ages 7-12. (Sept.)