Under a Pig Tree ― A History of the Noble Fruit (A Mixed-up Book)

The publisher and author of Under a Pig Tree seem to be having communication issues. The author has written a clear, no-nonsense history of figs. But the publisher is sure she meant pigs. After all, what’s the difference between two measly letters? What results is a hilarious illustrated history of pigs, from the earliest times (“Pigs were presented as ‘medals’ to the winners of the first Olympics”) to the present day (“There is nothing better than enjoying a cup of tea or glass of milk with one of those famous Pig Newtons”). The author, needless to say, is not happy about this “little mix-up” and makes her feelings very clearly known—by scrawling all over the book!

With sticky notes from the publisher, angry scribbles from the author, wrinkles, and pages askew, Under a Pig Tree is a playful peek into a book in “midproduction” and a humorous look at the consequences of small mistakes, by industry pro Margie Palatini and up-and-coming talent Chuck Groenink.

Margie Palatini is the author of many outrageously funny books for children, including Piggie Pie!, illustrated by Howard Fine, and Moosetache, illustrated by Henry Cole. She lives with her family in New Jersey.
Chuck Groenink is a Dutch artist who has illustrated several children’s books in Europe and the United States. He currently lives in Syracuse, New York, with his wife.