The Good Good Pig

The Extraordinary Life of Christopher Hogwood

By: Sy Montgomery

Narrated by: Xe Sands

A naturalist who spent months at a time living on her own among wild creatures in remote jungles, Sy Montgomery had always felt more comfortable with animals than with people. So she gladly opened her heart to a sick piglet who had been crowded away from nourishing meals by his stronger siblings. Yet Sy had no inkling that this piglet, later named Christopher Hogwood, would not only survive but flourish.

The Good Good Pig celebrates Christopher Hogwood in all his glory, from his inauspicious infancy to hog heaven in rural New Hampshire. At first his domain included only Sy's hens and border collie, Tess. Then the neighbors began fetching Christopher home from his unauthorized jaunts, the little girls next door started giving him baths, and the villagers brought him delicious leftovers. His fame increased along with his girth. He was featured in USA Today and on several National Public Radio programs.

But as this enchanting book describes, Christopher Hogwood's influence extended far beyond celebrity. Sy reveals what she learned from this generous soul who just so happened to be a pig - lessons about self-acceptance, the value of community, and the pleasures of the sweet green Earth.

©2006 Sy Montgomery (P)2016 Tantor

Critic reviews

"Xe Sands narrates this memoir of Montgomery's life with her porcine friend and what he teaches her about love, community, and family. Sands sounds at times quietly confidential, at other times mildly amused - her delivery has an intimate air, as though she's reminiscing about this pet to a close friend, an approach that suits the material.... Fans of all ages will enjoy and return to Montgomery's humorous, thoughtful reflections on the deep, sometimes inexplicable bonds between people and animals." ( AudioFile)

Good, Good Book!

What a Good, Good Book! A must read for any animal lover. And Xe Sands, as always, adds heart and soul to the story of the Good, Good Pig, Christopher Hogwood. May he forever rest in peace.

Amazing book

The love he brought out of the author, her family, and the whole community was palpable.

love, love, love

I absolutely loved this book. But I seem to love all of Sy's books. I want a pig now. 😊

Such a good pig

As someone who has been deeply attached to several great exemplars of the porcine persuasion, I highly recommend both ‘this book and the experiences supporting it. Do yourself a favor and listen to this book with your heart. You’ll enjoy it AND you’ll become a better person. Our planet needs more Sy Montgomerys and Christopher Hogwoods.

Love for animals

Very heartfelt story. Who would have thought a little pig could bring so much happiness to so many lives