Sidney & Norman: A Tale of Two Pigs

Kids and adults will love this simple, deep story. Complete with beautiful illustrations, the book is both interesting and inspiring.

Remember the biblical story of the Pharisee and the sinner both praying to God? One is self-righteous and the other knows he is a sinner. Now just change the humans to pigs and you'll have Phil Vischer's new book for children. The creative genius behind VeggieTales revisits Jesus' parable to teach children two truths: (1) We don't get into heaven because of our righteousness, and (2) God loves the bumbling sinner as much as the perfect person. Although some words in the book seem too difficult for little ones, the message is clear: God hates pride. Norman, full of conceit, always followed the rules. He gave money to the poor and never missed church. In addition, all of Norman's teachers liked him when he was a piglet. Poor Sidney could never get it together. He seldom arrived anywhere on time, and dressed very sloppy. He always hung his head when he ran into his neighbor Norman because he thought Norman looked down on him One day the two pigs receive an invitation from God to visit Him. He has something to say to both pigs. As children read the story, they will be surprised to see how God views these two different creatures. After reading the book to your child, please read the section called, "About This Book." In a transparent moment, Phil gives us a glimpse of how this parable plays out in his marriage. His epilogue might even trump his pig story. Don't miss it, I almost did. - Carol G Stratton, Christian Book Previews.com

Using the kind of high-value creativity we have come to expect from the Veggie Tales creator, Phil Vischer, this story offers a touching and magnificent view of God's love. Vischer offers this tale in a cunningly captivating style that will enthrall readers, no matter what age they might be. Outstanding illustrations of this story by Justin Gerard ably illustrate Vischer's prose. This book belongs in the hands of every home where parents desire to instill in their children the reality that God views us in a much different way than we might normally view each other. This book belongs in the hands of every professional who deals with children. It sets an example of how to relate solid truth in a way that penetrates to the core of one's being. Every church library should also purchase this book to add to the delight of its young readers and old. As Sydney says at the end of the book, speaking of what he learned from his encounter with God, "First of all, he loves me. Secondly, he loves me. And thirdly -- He loves me." This book would clearly make an excellent birthday or holiday gift for grandparents, aunts, and uncles.

Never a fan of Christian books, it was the beautifully illustrated cover that first caught my attention and caused me to pick up this book. But it was the writing and the message behind the story that captured me. Two pigs, Sidney and Norman, are as different as night and day. Even though they are neighbors they've never spoken and don't even know each other's names. One day they each receive a letter from God asking each to meet with Him. What follows is valuable life lessons learned for both Sidney and Norman, as well as young readers. This book will keep your kids attention and your own with its well-written and beautifully illustrated timeless story.

He's back! Phil Vischer, co-creator of Veggie Tales, has written Sydney and Norman, a children's story about two very different pigs who receive invitations to meet God. Both pigs accept the invitation. The surprise that awaits each and the lesons learned are central to this modern adaptation of one of the parables of Jesus. The pictures are nicely done and the story moves at a good pace to a satisfying conclusion. You and your kids will enjoy this book.

This book was AMAZING! It brought me to tears...the good kind of course! My neice loves the Veggie Tales and brought this book over on a visit. We sat and took turns reading it! By the end of the book I was in tears. What an amazing message for children...but for parents and adults alike! I have purchased many as gifts and plan to share this message with as many people as I can!