The Sheep-Pig: questions to ask and activities to try
Babe the piglet wants to be a sheepdog, and finds politeness works better than barking. The Sheep-Pig is the classic that inspired the film Babe.
What age is it for? The Sheep-Pig is best for ages 6–9. Good for: A pig who becomes a sheepdog, by being polite.
The Sheep-Pig (Dick King-Smith)
- Age
- 6-9
- Best for
- A pig who becomes a sheepdog, by being polite
Read a chapter a night. Talk about how Babe did things his own way.
What it helps with
- Being yourself
- Kindness and politeness
- Trying something unexpected
- Classic chapter books
Comprehension and discussion questions
Pick two or three, not all of them. “I don’t know” is a fine answer, and you can always come back to it another day.
- “Who adopted Babe?”
- “What did he want to do?”
- “How was he different from Fly?”
- “How did he talk to the sheep?”
- “What happened at the trials?”
- “What could you do your own way?”
5-minute activities to try together
Polite please
Practise asking for things politely all day.
Farm map
Draw Farmer Hogget's farm.
Free printables: The Sheep-Pig worksheet and activity pack
This book’s one-page worksheet with the questions and activities above, plus our activity pack: printable scenario cards, three 5-minute activities and a “What could I try?” page for practising everyday skills together. Enter your email and download them straight away.
Free. We’ll only email you if you tick the box.
If your child liked this, try
The Hodgeheg (Dick King-Smith)
- Best for
- A brave hedgehog with a plan, in a classic chapter book
- Age
- 6-8
Charlotte's Web (E. B. White and Garth Williams)
- Best for
- Friendship, loyalty and loss
- Age
- 6-10
Einstein the Penguin (Iona Rangeley and David Tazzyman)
- Best for
- A penguin who turns up to stay
- Age
- 6-9
Search all our books by what's happening →
By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 10 October 2026
Growing Wise offers educational ideas for parents and carers. It is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental or mental-health advice. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.