Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key

By: Jack Gantos

Narrated by: Jack Gantos

Joey Pigza can't sit still. He can't pay attention, he can't follow the rules, and he can't help it–especially when his meds aren't working. Joey's had problems ever since he was born, problems just like his dad and grandma have. And whether he's wreaking havoc on a class trip or swallowing his house key, Joey's problems are getting worse. In fact, his behavior is so off the wall that his teachers are threatening to send him to the special-ed center downtown.

Joey knows he's really a good kid, but no matter how hard he tries to do the right thing, something always seems to go wrong. Will he ever get anything right?©2000 Jack Gantos; (P)2009 Listening Library

A pleasure to listen to

I always love listening to authors read their own books, and Jack Gantos doesn't fail. I had read the book in text before, but listened to this with my kids and it was a pleasure. Joey is such an incredible character. His development helps you understand the perspective of a person struggling with emotional and verbal abuse and ADHD. I think it teaches empathy, perspective, and understanding. A great read for any preteen.

Thought-provoking children's story

Would you consider the audio edition of Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key to be better than the print version?

For commuting purposes, the audio version is better.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

A misunderstood boy gets the help he needs.

I can relate w/Joey, its hard being treated diff.

Would you listen to Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key again? Why?

yes, its got a lot of insight about overactive imaginations. I think a lot of adults are still unaware of the complexity of these disorders & the amount of time, patience, & constant parenting needed to help a child succeed in life with them.

I would like my 2 boys to hear it with me this time, BUT I'm also concerned about putting anymore ideas in their already overactive minds.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Joey of course, because of his constant desire to do his best.

Have you listened to any of Jack Gantos’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

no but hope to soon!

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

yes

Any additional comments?

Great book, keep'em coming!

Great adhd kids book

This is a super informative, entertaining and positive book about a kid with adhd and the trouble he gets into despite his good intentions. There’s a lot of good stuff here to talk with kids about and a lot of good stuff for adults to learn from.

Joey's ADHD

This was a great read. My husband and I listened together. We have a son who has ADHD and this filled me with a lot of emotions . For my husband, it gave him a better understanding of how my son makes decisions and how others may see him. Entertaining and insightful.