Picturebook Review: The Three Ninja Pigs by Corey Rosen Schwartz and Dan Santat

The Three Ninja Pigs, written by Corey Rosen Schwartz and illustrated by Dan Santat, is a fractured fairy tale about the three little pigs and sticking with things. In this version of the tale the three little pigs decide that they are going to learn martial arts and defend themselves from the wolf. So, the first takes aikido lessons, the second learns some jujitsu, and their little sister studies karate. They plan in surprising that wolf with their new skills. However, the wolves quickly discover that the effectiveness of those lessons are only as strong as their determination and time used to master them.

The Three Ninja Pigs is a picture book full of smart and sill dialogue and spunky illustrations. The tongue in cheek comments are entertaining while imparting a twist on a familiar tale. The story does not hide that it is  lesson in perseverance and dedication, but rather teaches the lesson in a way that if fun. It might be a good book to read when your little ninja(s) decides they want to take dance, karate, start and sport, study a musical instrument, and so on.