Book Series · 3 Books

Joey Pigza Books

In order from Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key to The Key That Swallowed Joey Pigza.

The Joey Pigza series is a set of 3 chapter books by Jack Gantos, published between 1998 and 2014. Written for ages 8–14, most books run about 180 pages.

Where the story begins

First Book in the Series

Sale price

$759

Book #1 · Chapter Book · Ages 10–14 · 1998

Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key

By Jack Gantos

A boy's wild impulses threaten to derail his future.

176 pages· 35,620 words· Est. 4 hour read

$7.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: Joey Pigza struggles with hyperactivity and impulsive decisions, like swallowing keys and running with scissors. His 'dud meds' fail to control his mood swings, landing him in a special-ed program. Determined not to fall through the cracks, Joey faces the challenge of navigating a world that doesn't understand him. Can he find a way to harness his energy and stay on track?

In reading order

Joey Pigza Series

3 books · Published 1998–2014

#1 in Series

Sale price

$759

Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key

Chapter Book · Ages 10–14 · 1998

A boy's wild impulses threaten to derail his future.

#2 in Series

Sale price

$858

Joey Pigza Loses Control

Chapter Book · Ages 10–14 · 2000

Joey's summer with his dad tests his control without medication.

Series

Sale price

$759

The Key That Swallowed Joey Pigza

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2014

A boy juggles family chaos and a mysterious key to his missing father's secrets.

Good to know

Common Questions

How many books are in the Joey Pigza series?

There are 3 books in the Joey Pigza series. It began with Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key in 1998, and the newest book, The Key That Swallowed Joey Pigza, was published in 2014.