46 pages 1 hour read

Paul Zindel

The Pigman

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1968

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In The Pigman by Paul Zindel, high school sophomores John Conlan and Lorraine Jensen develop a deep friendship with an eccentric, lonely man named Angelo Pignati, whom they meet through a prank phone call. As they spend time with him, they enjoy a sense of family and adventure but ultimately face consequences due to their careless actions. The novel includes themes of teenage drinking, cursing, and disrespect of adults.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Pigman by Paul Zindel receives praise for its realistic portrayal of teenage angst and friendship, capturing the complexities of adolescence. The narrative's humor and emotional depth resonate well. However, some critics note the dated language and certain plot elements that may not appeal to modern readers. Overall, it's a compelling, if slightly aged, coming-of-age story.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Pigman?

Readers who would enjoy The Pigman by Paul Zindel are typically teens drawn to coming-of-age stories marked by humor, poignancy, and relatable characters. Fans of novels like S.E. Hinton's The Outsiders and Judy Blume's Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret will appreciate the emotional depth and exploration of adolescence.

RecommendedReading Age

12-16years

Lexile Level

880L

Book Details

Genre

Realistic Fiction

Children's Literature

Education

Topics

Grief / Death

Education

Themes

Relationships: Family

Life/Time: Mortality & Death

Values/Ideas: Truth & Lies