Review by Moira Young
Walker Books US, Candlewick Press, 2020
160 pages, Hardcover, $14.99CAD, 9781536210248
Early Chapter Book, 7-9 years
Fiction
Jasmine Green Rescues series: Book 1
If this didn’t work, Jasmine thought, she would have to tell her Mom. Her mom might be angry with her for stealing the pig, but she was a fantastic vet. She would do everything she could to keep Truffle alive. If she couldn’t save Truffle, nobody could.
Who hasn’t wondered what life would be like on a whimsical, family-run farm? Helen Peters’ Jasmine Green Rescues: A Piglet Called Truffle shares a heartwarming story that blends themes of animal care, friendship, family, and responsibility. Jasmine, a spirited young girl with a rich passion for rescuing animals, lives with her family on Oak Tree Farm, constantly surrounded by the creatures she loves. In this instalment of the Jasmine Green series, Jasmine finds a tiny piglet, names her Truffle, and embarks on an adventure to save the piglet – and convince her family to let her keep it!
From the first pages, readers learn that Jasmine’s daily life revolves around her nurturing family and caring for their farm. With her veterinarian mother and farmer father, Jasmine has always been surrounded by animals, such as chickens, lambs, and even guinea pigs. This environment has instilled in her a deep empathy and a sense of responsibility for every animal she encounters. When a runt piglet is born, unwanted by her grumpy neighbour, Jasmine knows she must save the tiny creature. However, there’s one big problem: she can’t let her parents find out since pigs are one of the few animals not allowed on Oak Tree Farm!
One of the story’s greatest strengths is its realistic portrayal of farm life. Peters, who has been raised on a farm herself, offers readers an authentic picture of the daily tasks involved in caring for animals. The book doesn’t shy away from the more complex realities of farm work, which adds a unique layer of realism that readers may not encounter in other animal stories. Peters also introduces abundant new vocabulary and information about farming, including standard medical practices and wildlife care. However, she skillfully balances these elements with an optimistic tone, ensuring the story remains uplifting for a young audience.
Jasmine is a relatable protagonist who embodies kindness, determination, and bravery. Young readers will find her inspiring as she faces the challenges of raising a fragile piglet and other barnyard animals. In addition to being an insightful story about animal rescue, A Piglet Called Truffle shares valuable lessons about empathy and responsibility. Readers learn that hard work and patience are involved in caring for another living being and that such tasks often require support from others.
Peters’ writing is accessible and engaging, with concise chapters and whimsical illustrations by Ellie Snowdon that keep the story lively and appealing to children and the combination of entertaining narrative and informative content makes it enjoyable and educational. A Piglet Called Truffle is a heartwarming, fast-paced read for young readers curious about animals and farm life. Readers will surely fall in love with Jasmine’s world on Oak Tree Farm.
Moira Young is an undergraduate at UBC Vancouver, majoring in English Literature and minoring in Creative Writing. She is passionate about writing and the art of storytelling.
YOUNG ADULTING 