Frank Muir (1920–1998)

An utterly charming and amusing retelling of this classic tale. The three little pigs (whom we now know to be called Hot, Cross and Bun) have formed a rock band and are banished to the woods by their mother owing to the horrendous noise. The animals of the forest are not particularly impressed either and coerce the unwilling B. B. Wolf (a complete softy and not very frightening at all) into trying to scare the piglets away. Muir incorporates the elements of the straw, twig and brick houses show more in a delightful way and the eventual denouement is very cleverly done. Great fun. The illustrations are superb, too. show less

I absolutely adore this book and have ever since I swiped it from my parents. It's packed with (mostly snarky) excerpts of private letters and published writings from historical and cultural figures past and present. This is not a book to sit down with and read cover to cover, but is wonderful for flitting through, a page here and a page there.

Frank Muir's work excels in subplots and 'hidden' stories in the illustration details. This book is my all-time favourite for all the tiny drama going on in background to the main story of a puppy being harassed and intimidated by the "cat next door". The detailed concept is brilliant and just as suitable for adults as for children.

The second in the Frank Muir goes into-- is similar in format to the first, interspersing quotes by notable persons, corny jokes and commentary by Frank Muir. This time the subjects range the gamut of human nature, from optimism and bravery to superstition, fear and lust. It's done in the dry wit of English comedy. The illustrations are drawings and advertisements that add to the fun and nostalgia. As Frank said, "Nostalgia isn't what it used to be." But he's wrong. You can find it here.