Mercy Watson Thinks Like a Pig: A Delightful Romp for Young Readers

🍞 Introduction: A Toast-Loving Pig and Her Misadventures

If you’ve ever met a pig who loves buttered toast more than life itself, you’ve met Mercy Watson. Kate DiCamillo’s Mercy Watson Thinks Like a Pig is the fifth installment in the beloved Mercy Watson series, and it’s every bit as charming, hilarious, and heartwarming as its predecessors. Perfect for early readers (ages 6-9, grades K-4), this chapter book blends slapstick humor, lovable characters, and just enough mischief to keep kids turning pages.

DiCamillo, a Newbery Medal-winning author (The Tale of Despereaux, Because of Winn-Dixie), has a knack for crafting stories that feel both whimsical and deeply human—even when the protagonist is a pig. With Chris Van Dusen’s vibrant illustrations bringing Mercy’s world to life, this book is a joy to read aloud or independently.

But what makes Mercy Watson Thinks Like a Pig stand out? Let’s dive in.

📖 Plot Summary: Chaos, Toast, and a Determined Pig

Without giving away major spoilers, the story follows Mercy Watson, a porcine wonder with an insatiable appetite for toast. When Mercy’s nose leads her to the neighbor’s yard, she discovers a delicious-smelling treasure: freshly planted pansies. To Mercy, these aren’t flowers—they’re a snack waiting to happen.

But Eugenia Lincoln, the no-nonsense neighbor, is not amused. She calls Animal Control, and soon, the chase is on! Mercy’s antics spiral into a hilarious escapade involving mistaken identities, a runaway pig, and a whole lot of buttered toast.

The plot moves swiftly, with short chapters that keep young readers engaged. There’s just enough tension to make it exciting without being scary, and the resolution is satisfyingly sweet (much like Mercy’s beloved toast).

🐷 Character Analysis: Who Steals the Show?

Mercy Watson – The Toast-Obsessed Heroine

Mercy is the heart of the story—a pig who thinks with her stomach. She’s not malicious, just very food-motivated. Kids will adore her single-minded devotion to snacks and her obliviousness to the chaos she causes.

Mr. and Mrs. Watson – The Adoring (If Slightly Clueless) Owners

The Watsons love Mercy like a child, showering her with affection (and toast). Their unwavering belief that Mercy is a “porcine wonder” adds to the humor.

Eugenia Lincoln – The Grumpy Neighbor

Eugenia is the perfect foil to Mercy’s joyful chaos. She’s stern, rule-abiding, and utterly exasperated by the pig next door. Yet, DiCamillo gives her just enough depth to avoid making her a one-dimensional villain.

Animal Control Officer – The Unwitting Straight Man

His deadpan reactions to Mercy’s antics make for some of the funniest moments in the book.

Each character is distinct and memorable, making the interactions feel lively and real.

✍️ Writing Style & Narrative Technique: Simple Yet Sophisticated

DiCamillo’s prose is deceptively simple—short sentences, accessible vocabulary, and plenty of repetition for emerging readers. But within that simplicity, she packs humor, warmth, and even a touch of satire (Eugenia’s over-the-top disdain for Mercy is comedy gold).

Chris Van Dusen’s illustrations are a perfect match, with bold colors and exaggerated expressions that amplify the humor. The visual storytelling complements the text beautifully, making this a great pick for kids transitioning from picture books to chapter books.

🎭 Themes & Deeper Meanings: More Than Just a Funny Pig Story

Beneath the laughs, Mercy Watson Thinks Like a Pig explores:

  • Unconditional Love – The Watsons adore Mercy, flaws and all.
  • Misunderstandings & Forgiveness – Eugenia’s frustration stems from not “getting” Mercy, but the story leaves room for reconciliation.
  • The Joy of Indulgence – Mercy’s unapologetic love for toast is a celebration of simple pleasures.

It’s a lighthearted book, but it subtly reinforces kindness and empathy.

💖 Personal Reading Experience: Why Kids (and Adults) Will Love It

Reading this aloud to my niece was a riot—she giggled at Mercy’s antics and gasped when Animal Control showed up. The pacing is perfect for young attention spans, and the humor works on multiple levels (parents will chuckle at Eugenia’s exasperation).

Emotionally, the book is pure comfort. There’s no real danger, just silliness and warmth. It’s the kind of story kids return to when they need a laugh.

📚 Comparison to Other Early Chapter Books

Fans of Junie B. Jones or Narwhal and Jelly will love Mercy’s mischievous charm. DiCamillo’s writing is more polished than some early reader series, making this a great bridge to more complex books.

✅ Strengths & Minor Weaknesses

Strengths:

  • Humor – Slapstick, wordplay, and visual gags galore.
  • Accessibility – Great for reluctant readers.
  • Heart – It’s impossible not to root for Mercy.

Weaknesses:

  • Predictability – The formula is similar to previous books, but fans won’t mind.
  • Eugenia’s Role – Some may wish she had more growth, but her grumpiness is part of the fun.

🎯 Target Audience: Who Should Read This?

  • Ages 6-9 (Grades K-4)
  • Early readers (short chapters, illustrations, simple vocabulary)
  • Kids who love animals, humor, and lighthearted chaos
  • Parents/teachers looking for read-aloud options

🌟 Memorable Quotes & Passages

“Mercy Watson was not a pig to be underestimated.”

“There is nothing better than buttered toast. Nothing.”

These lines capture Mercy’s essence perfectly!

🔗 Get the Book:

Ready to join Mercy’s toast-filled adventures? Grab your copy here:
Amazon

Final Verdict: A Must-Read for Young Book Lovers

Mercy Watson Thinks Like a Pig is a delightful, fast-paced romp that blends humor, heart, and just the right amount of mischief. Whether you’re new to Mercy’s world or a longtime fan, this book is a winner.

Discussion Questions for Young Readers:

  • What would you do if your pet ate the neighbor’s flowers?
  • Do you think Eugenia will ever like Mercy? Why or why not?
  • What’s your favorite kind of toast? (Butter? Jam? Cinnamon sugar?)

Have you read Mercy Watson Thinks Like a Pig? Share your thoughts in the comments! �🍞

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