How Tickles Saved Pickles

If you are an animal lover, this book is for you! This thoughtful and sweet story about Pickles the Pig will capture hearts of both children and adults. As the reader, I could immediately tell that author and photographer, Maddie Johnson wrote this book with warmth, love and passion.

“Pickles is a pig, rescued as a wee one and now living it up at his forever home. But one day Pickles becomes very sick. His only hope?”

What makes Pickles special?

Just about everything makes Pickles special! From his ability to surf, jump, paint, and make friends with other dog friends. Each page represents Pickles journey through life with detailed photos taken by the author herself.

One day Pickles eats something he shouldn’t and gets very sick. After being rushed to the hospital, the only treatment is to get healthy blood from another pig. What does Pickles parents do? They adopt another pig to save Pickles! Who is that hero? It’s none other than Tickles.

What to learn from this book…

This book is about love, friendship and a dedication to rescuing and helping animals. After finding this book at the library and purchasing it to own, I began following Maddie’s adventures on her instagram page, Living with Pickles, which I loved! Each time another picture is posted, it brings a smile to my face, so thank you to Maddie!

When reading this book to your child discuss the words “rescue” and what that means for an animal. Why did Pickles need to be rescued? Discuss the life he couldn’t had in a flooded barn versus his forever home. Talk about the pig, Tickles and how he saved Pickle’s life. How did Pickle’s parents feel when Pickle’s was sick? How about after? Discuss all of the friendships that Pickles has made in his life including his best friend Dill.

Engage in language game by comparing and contrasting Tickles and Pickles. How are they the same? How are they different? This can lead into a great conversation about friendships and commitments to friends and what you believe in.

Discuss the author’s passion for saving animals. This can lead into wonderful conversation with children on how they can contribute to helping animals.

How Tickles Saved Pickles: A True Story