One of a set of four launch titles for this series, that subverts traditional children's tales – here, that of the Three Little Pigs. But we don't really get any amazing, shocking twist or variant, however novel the approach. Written as a journal from the Third Pig (the one who was such a fixer-upper and a hard worker that he had the nous to build his new home from Lego-styled bricks) it shows what happens when he and his two brothers are kicked out of their mother's home and told to go and make their own way in life.

It turns out our hero was just fixing things up because he knew (ie he thought…) he could rely on nobody but himself, when there was more reluctance to do the work than anyone expected, and he was just taking too much on to his own shoulders. Oh, and this wolf might not be the most scary one out there. So in all it's a touch too worthy and a bit limp to stand as a great twist on things – even if we certainly gain more empathy for the successful pig than with other tellings of the same story. In no way does it replace or improve the original – and I think the best of this kind of book can just about do that. Added to the way the format struggles to make sense ("oh gosh darn my life and home and family are under threat, so let me hunker down and write pages in my diary here…") and you probably get three and a half stars at most.

I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Such a clever, humourous, warm and sweet story that's based on "Three Little Pigs" told through one pig's journal. It reimagines a familiar story into a refreshing relatable and engaging way.

I just love this alternate telling of The Three Little Pigs. Mason and his brothers are finally old enough to be on their own, and they set off to make their own lives. Mason has ordered sturdy material to make his house, but his brothers are living in homes made of straw and sticks, respectively. What is up with the gray hair and empty wrappers in their homes? This is such a sweet story told from the point of view of Mason, the responsible one, in his diary. Kids can learn how to write in their own diaries, too. Thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this.

Mama pig says it's time for the three little pigs to be on their own. Mason, the third little pig is known as Mr Fix-it because he does all the work. He has a secret, though. He is tired of always being the one to do everything. Mama tells him to not worry about his brothers and to have faith in them. As the three go out into the world, Mason and his brothers learn some valuable lessons.
This is a cute version of the three little pigs story. Early chapter book readers will find it a fun and entertaining read.
The illustrations are charming and humorous and add to the enjoyment of the story.

Adorable illustrations accompany easy-to-read text in this fractured fairy tale! Children will recognize familiar plot points and characters, as well as being amused by a few twists and turns!