A Piglet Named Mercy
illustrated by Chris Van Dusen
Candlewick Press, April 2, 2019
Early chapter book, ISBN 978-0-7636-7753-4
Every porcine wonder was once a piglet! Celebrate the joy of a new arrival with this endearing picture-book prequel to the Mercy Watson series.
Mr. Watson and Mrs. Watson live ordinary lives. Sometimes their lives feel a bit too ordinary. Sometimes they wish something different would happen. And one day it does, when someone unpredictable finds her way to their front door. In a delightful origin story for the star of the Mercy Watson series, a tiny piglet brings love (and chaos) to Deckawoo Drive—and the Watsons’ lives will never be the same.
Read the Reviews
The popular early-reader series about Mercy the pig gets an origin story in this delightful picture book … As in the previous books, the gouache illustrations are polished to a sheen, and happily here have more room to shine. The book’s vintage look suits the story well and is sure to entice readers. Old friends and new fans will appreciate this; bring on the toast. (Booklist)
To paraphrase an immortal spider, Mercy is some pig … Younger siblings of the Mercy chapter-book lovers will find their way into the series with this first look, written just for them. (Kirkus Reviews)
As ever, Van Dusen’s bright colors and bold characterization joyfully accompany DiCamillo’s story, this time of new and evolving familial love. Established fans will find plenty to appreciate here, while newcomers will be charmed, making this a natural stepping stone to the original series. (Publishers Weekly)