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46 pages 1 hour read

The Pigman

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1968

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Book Brief

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Paul Zindel

The Pigman

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1968
Book Details
Pages

166

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Staten Island, New York • 1960s

Publication Year

1968

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-16 years

Lexile Level

880L

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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.

Bittersweet

Mysterious

Emotional

Melancholic

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.1

29,726 ratings

57%

Loved it

30%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

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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.

4.1

29,726 ratings

57%

Loved it

30%

Mixed feelings

14%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

166

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Staten Island, New York • 1960s

Publication Year

1968

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-16 years

Lexile Level

880L

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