Hamlet and the Tales of Sniggery Woods Book

Young Hamlet loves to cook, but so far he’s only dabbled with dishes like Invisible Worm Tart with dandelion cream. As luck would have it, Hamlet inherits a café from his uncle Alf. Heralding the advice of King Heron—To Bake the Best Biscuit, A Young Pig Should Risk It—Hamlet takes the plunge and becomes the new owner of Hamlet’s Pantry. Together, his friends help him prepare the menu and get ready for opening day. Set in the enchanting world of Sniggery Woods, these three winning tales bring to life the adventures of an imaginative pig destined to follow his dream.

Children's Literature

Hamlet and The Tales of Sniggery Woods is a children's story that follows the maturation of a pig as he makes his way in the world. Combining artistry and entrepreneurship, Hamlet is not the typical pig. Blessed with a brilliant palette, Hamlet is a wonderful young chef, combining ingredients to make tasty meals for his friends and family. Opportunity strikes as Hamlet's uncle passes on and leaves Hamlet a cafe. Hamlet, still a young pig, is afraid to venture out on his own and reopen the restaurant. However, after seeking advice from King Heron, Hamlet eventually opens the restaurant but is unsuccessful, as there are other restaurants in town. Eventually Hamlet transforms the restaurant into a cooking school and teaches his fellow pigs the art of cooking. Hamlet experiences numerous mishaps along his journey and learns the lessons of cooperation, teamwork, and improvisation. Additional characters who support Hamlet in his journey are King Heron, a bird-king who seems anything but a birdbrain. King Heron offers wisdom, experience, and insight to the young pig. Also Hamlet's cousin Gloomy, a single mother of two, dabbles in the art of witchcraft—equipped with a cauldron, spiders, and a witch hat. Gloomy is eager to help Hamlet in anyway she can. Balancing motherhood with work, Gloomy's domestic space is a workspace as she produces knitted blankets and homemade juices. Hamlet and the Tales of Sniggery Woods is beautifully written and captures the imagination. The use of irony, imagery, and characterization makes for an enjoyable children's book. Reviewer: Sarah Knight