Joey Pigza Loses Control

Joey Pigza Loses Control

Citation: Gantos, Jack. Joey Pigza Loses Control. Farrar, Straus, and Giroux, 2000.

Plot:





   
Joey is going to spend the summer with his dad for the first time ever. Joey doesn't even remember his father, as his father has been an alcoholic and an absentee parent for the majority of Joey's life. However, claiming being recovered, Joey's dad is ready to get to know Joey and maybe be a dad. Joey's mom is hesitant, but understands that this is something Joey needs to do. Joey is on medication (a patch) to control his hyper, ADD behavior. Things really go awry when Joey's dad decides Joey doesn't need his patch anymore, starts drinking again, and decides Joey is his key to winning a baseball championship. Joey battles whether he should tell his mom or not, and decides he'd rather try and stay with his dad. This doesn't work out so well, as the old, hyper Joey shows up and Joey is unable to perform in baseball like his father expected. Joey's dad runs at Joey, and Joey escapes to call his mother and tell her the whole story. But what happens to Joey and his dad?

Review:



This is really a well-reviewed book, even winning a Newberry medal honor. Joey is a loveable character, and his first person detail of his life is very well-written and engaging. As an adult, however, I found it to be a terribly sad book that contains possibly inappropriate content. Joey's father is an alcoholic, putting Joey in terribly dangerous situations throughout the entire book. Their disfunctional relationship is detailed, and it is heart wrenching. I understand that many tweens may relate to Joey for a variety of reasons, making a relevant choice for some. I do think that a librarian should use discretion when recommending this tale of Joey Pigza. Some tweens may find it upsetting, whereas others will be thankful to see themselves in Joey.
 
Reading Level: 11 and up (depending on the tween)

Series Information:









Sequel to Joey Pigza Swallows the Key


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