If pigs could fly, would they recite limericks on street corners? There is no evidence that Snyder could fly, or even wanted to. From the time he learned to speak English, he wanted only to make poems … and to survive in a world that thought of him as dinner. Snyder: The Pig’s Tale is the story of the poet’s “childhood,” his harrowing escape from the farm, and his career as a performance poet in Seattle’s Pike Place Market.

“This wonderful story of a pig who learns to speak and read and even write poetry is both cute and instructive. It reminded me of the Bear Goes Over the Mountain series. Learning that he would soon be butchered, Snyder escapes the farm and travels to the big city and its market place. Here, he becomes a celebrity, joining forces with a young girl folk singer (who eventually rips him off and betrays him). Snyder’s limericks are both hilarious and touching. He gains a fan platform and biker body guards who are much more than they seem.

“This is a delightful story with many insights into society’s ills and frills. The author makes Snyder so real. He also guides the reader so well into areas that might be uncomfortable but deserve to be considered. We rated it five hearts.”

“This story of a young pig who escapes becoming sausages and pork chops, and goes on to become a poet and street performer with an amazing collection of young human friends is a wonderful read, and leaves me wanting to know more!”

“Snyder: The Pig’s Tale is the beginning of a journey through life’s complexities—danger, friendship, identity, prejudice, risk, family and survival. It is an intriguing children’s book that youth and adults will enjoy as well. Snyder is one lucky, talented, interesting pig! His next adventures with humans and the spoken word promise to be compelling. 

“Snyder: The Pig’s Tale was a delight to read, and a colorful snapshot of the free-spirited folks that people our beloved Pike Street Market. To me, the story seemed like a Valentine with some hard and thoughtful edges.”