Book Review: Pogpog and the Magic Grapes

Reviewed by Jaylynn Korrell

Honesty is the best policy in this fun-loving story about a cute, picky pig. 

Pogpog and the Magic Grapes promotes a magical solution to a common, major problem for kids: eating vegetables. With a natural sweet tooth and his mother’s happiness in mind, Pogpog handles a tough social situation with kindness and is rewarded in a way that’ll please everyone. 

Pogpog is a friendly pig who, like many children, is having a difficult time accepting vegetables as a meal option. Still, he yearns to make his mother happy. Despite being given salad greens with his hearty breakfast, Pogpog feasts on every other option instead. His mother is not too pleased with his decision, but, like a good little guy, he promises to make it up to her and actually does. 

While the salad sits on the table uneaten, Pogpog runs outside to join his friend Moonchi, a fellow pig kid, on an unlikely hunger- & honesty-fueled adventure. When a mysterious goat drops a bundle of grapes off of his bike, the story becomes about  the problem: should they eat them, return them, or both?

Pogpog the pig is the perfect silly name for a main character like this one. A great character name goes a long way for kids—how easy & fun is it for your kid to say “Pogpog!” when you ask them what they should read tonight? He’s got a great heart as a character, and his big bright eyes pop off the page and will captivate the children who pick up this book. Kids are going to love the images of Pogpog’s hungry best friend Moonchi too. 

Speaking of…Moonchi is a real highlight. He might be the one who gets them into this pickle, but his mischievous nature is the perfect balance to the more sensible Pogpog. They’re a fun pair. When Moonchi tries to get away with some sneakiness, I laughed—and then I felt thankful that Pogpog could bring the right choice home. 

Parents should be aware that Pogpog, while well-meaning, does accept and eat food from a stranger, and it could be something to discuss with your child while and after reading it.

Pogpog and the Magic Grapes teaches kids a valuable lesson about doing the right thing. Should Popog cover for his friend, or should he return something that doesn’t belong to them? So many kids have to deal with this social situation, and this book effectively encourages that behavior. This is a strong focal point for a story. 

A short & easy read with a handful of fun characters, Pogpog is definitely one I won’t forget.

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