King Emmett the Second - Softcover

In Emmett's Pig (1959), Emmett received his heart's desire; ``King Emmett,'' a pig described as his but kept on a farm at some distance from his N.Y.C. home. Now, in one day, Emmett receives two overwhelming pieces of news: he hears that his family is moving to a small Ohio town (which precipitates what may be his first temper tantrum); then, with remarkably bad timing, his mother tells him that King Emmett is no more--he has met a pig's usual fate. Not surprisingly, Emmett arrives at the Ohio house full of belligerence, but Ohio simply doesn't fight back: the house really is nicer; despite Emmett's suspicions, the older boy next door is friendly and teaches Emmett to ride his new bike; and a more suitable pet is soon provided--a dog with a memorial name (see title), to be called simply ``King.'' Once past the jolting (though not altogether improbable) beginning, this becomes a pleasant story of necessary adjustments made with good intentions and with some realistic parent-child negotiations. Williams's contribution is minimal here, but Emmett is recognizable, just a year older. (Fiction/Young reader. 7-10) -- Copyright ©1991, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.

When Emmett finds out that his family is moving to Ohio, he throws his first-ever temper tantrum, and determines to hate everything about his new home. To make matters worse, his mother informs him that his dear pig, King Emmett, is dead. In her sequel to Emmett's Pig , Stolz writes with customary wit and sensitivity, as Emmett views his familiar world turned upside-down. He is an unusual boy, filled with questions and ready answers, headstrong in his self-imposed duty to hate Ohio, but always aware of when he has pushed his patient parents a little too far. Stolz guides Emmett realistically--yet humorously--through his period of denial, until the lad realizes some important truths: liking his new home, new friends, even a new pet does not mean the abandonment of cherished memories. Williams's quiet, copper-toned illustrations perfectly characterize the book's gentle wisdom. This refreshing look at a common childhood fear is ideal for reading alone or with parents. Ages 7-up.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.