Reviews

The Boy Who Kicked Pigs by Tom Baker, David Roberts

acorn_soup's review against another edition

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dark funny fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

honeymonster's review

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dark lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? N/A
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? N/A
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

This book sure is gleefully gruesome.  I'm pretty sure it's not actually aimed at kids?  Unfortunately, it was one of those stories where I can see where it was meant to be funny, but the jokes just fell flat for me.

lubleu's review

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dark funny lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? N/A
  • Diverse cast of characters? N/A
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Even aged just thirteen years old, Robert Caligari is evil through and through. His favourite thing to do is kick pigs and, after a humiliating incident with a bacon butty, Robert comes to the realisation that he loathes the human race.

'There was some trouble in the house once when Robert kicked the pigs so hard that it flew (oh yes, pigs can fly, if you kick them hard enough).' (p15)

This is a short and ridiculous story but it's so well thought out. It recognises that it's a nonsensical set of circumstances so ensures that they are well-plotted and formed. The writing style is humorous and this is emphasised by David Roberts' illustrations.

'Whoever writes stuff like this is beyond the pale, he's sick.' (p5)

thebobsphere's review

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4.0

The title of the book says it all - it's about a boy who kicks pigs then gets his comeuppance.

ambermahalia's review

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2.0

Ew. I'm not sure. This is really dark and not what I was expecting. Not a festive read but a brutal, gory read. Perfect if you like that sort of thing. Not my cup of tea.

kaylynn's review

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3.0

I really liked the first part, but the last part was ghastly. Really, really ghastly.

hammard's review

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3.0

Enjoyable but bizarre novella.
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