Book Review: The Three Javelinas

 BOOK REVIEW: The Three Javelinas

 

1.     BIBLIOGRAPHY

Lowell, Susan.  1992.  THE THREE JAVELINAS.  Ill. by Jim Harris.  Flagstaff, AZ:  Rising Moon. ISBN  9780590481700

 

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

THE THREE JAVELINAS is a different version of The Three Little Pigs. In this version the three javelinas follow the original tale but with different cultural and regional references. For example, instead of building houses with straw, sticks and brick, the javelinas build houses with tumbleweed, saguaro pieces and adobe bricks. The villain is a coyote instead of a wolf. In the end, instead of the wolf falling into a pot to his demise, the coyote gets burned by hot sauce.

 

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS

This story is an incredible example of a folktale that is adapted by using specific cultural and regional details. This version of The Three Little Pigs is published from Flagstaff, Arizona by an author that is a fourth generation Arizonan. This adapted folktale is a humorous version that brings in a wiser character, making humor of the original three pigs.

The illustrations are very detailed. The color scheme embodies the colors of the desert.

 

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

GOODREADS review: “This clever and humorous tale is sure to delight children of all ages, especially those familiar with the Southwest. Dressed in cowboy duds and prepared for life in the rugged desert, these characters are more than any coyote bargained for.”

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY review: “This clever and flavorful change of scene puts a diverting spin on an old favorite.”

 

5. CONNECTIONS

*This story would be an excellent reader’s theater event focusing on the main characters unique and humorous characters.

*Other variations to read and compare to The Three Javelinas:

Trivizas, Eugene. THE THREE LITTLE WOLVES AND THE BIG BAD PIG ISBN: 0689815287

Scieszka, Jon. THE TRUE STORY OF THE THREE LITTLE PIGS. ISBN: 9780140544510

 

Based on a review by Barbara Jean Thompson