The Key that Swallowed Joey Pigza

Gr 4–7—The beloved Joey Pigza returns in this gem of a book narrated by the irrepressible author. This time, Joey is left in charge when his mom, suffering from postpartum depression, leaves him for a stint at a mental hospital. He must care for his beloved baby brother, Carter Pigza Jr., with only some food stamps and his strength of will and generous spirit. Joey's MIA dad has had very bad plastic surgery and decides he wants the baby so Joey must also deal with protecting the baby from his crazy father. Add to the mix Olivia, "the meanest cute blind girl [Joey has] ever loved" and you've got yourself a situation. Joey does his very best to protect everyone while waiting for his mom to be released from the hospital. Things get pretty bad but Joey's loving heart and strong character see him through each challenge, especially once he finds his meds that his mom had hidden. Gantos is a superb narrator, emphasizing the "pawzzitive" while never shying away from the realities of Joey's life. While the adults around him are spinning out of control, Joey may be frantic but he is truly the man of the house. Gantos makes the hopeful ending seem real and allows listeners to feel that they're leaving Joey Pigza in good hands.