I Am Not Joey Pigza

Jack Gantos

Jul 2007 · Joey Pigza Book 4 · Sold by Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR)

About this ebook

Just when Joey Pigza's wired world finally seems to be under control, his good-for-nothing dad pops back into his life. This time, though, Carter Pigza is a new man – literally. After a lucky lotto win, Carter Pigza has a crazy new outlook on life, and he's even changed his name to Charles Heinz. He thinks Joey and his mom should become new people, too. Soon Joey finds himself bombarded with changes: a new name, a new home, and a new family business – running the beat-up Beehive Diner. He knows he should forgive his dad as his mom wants him to, and get with the new family program. But Joey is afraid that in changing names and going with the flow he will lose sight of who he really is.

In this rocket-paced new chapter in Joey Pigza's life, a favorite hero discovers what identity and forgiveness really mean, and how to cook a delicious turkey burger.

This title has Common Core connections.

Ratings and reviews

Just like she always will be, Joey's mother brings disappointment to the table. She chooses "Charles" over her son's happiness and safety. She FORCES him to take on a new identity and name. Is WILLING to have him fail grade, to prevent the dean from knowing the "Pigza" past. All for money and an attempt to start her own business. At least grandma cared and only wanted what was best for Joey. Wow, this novel gets worse and worse for Joey. His mother feels embarrassment over his being a severe ADHD kid. 😭 You'll see the true Fran in this book.

I love this book

About the author

Jack Gantos has written books for people of all ages, from picture books and middle-grade fiction to novels for young adults and adults. His works include Hole in My Life, a memoir that won the Michael L. Printz and Robert F. Sibert Honors; the Joey Pigza series, which include a Newbery Honor book and a National Book Award Finalist; Dead End in Norvelt, winner of the Newbery Medal and the Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction; and the Rotten Ralph series.