"A Day No Pigs Would Die" is a novel written by Robert Newton Peck, first published in 1972. The book is considered a classic of young adult literature and is often taught in schools. It is set in rural Vermont and tells the coming-of-age story of a young boy named Robert Peck, who shares the same name as the author.

The novel explores themes such as family, responsibility, morality, and the harsh realities of farm life. The story revolves around Robert's experiences growing up on a small farm, where he learns important life lessons from his father, Haven Peck, who is a Shaker and a farmer. The book delves into the challenges the Peck family faces, including economic hardship and the necessity of raising and slaughtering animals for sustenance.

One of the central events in the novel is the titular "day no pigs would die," which refers to a day when a neighbor's sow dies while giving birth, and Haven Peck helps deliver the piglets. As a gesture of gratitude, the neighbor offers the Peck family one of the piglets, which they name Pinky. Pinky becomes a beloved pet for Robert but later serves as a source of both joy and heartbreak as the family must make difficult decisions about her fate.

"A Day No Pigs Would Die" is celebrated for its simple, heartfelt prose and its portrayal of the challenges and values of rural life. It is often praised for its authenticity and its ability to convey important life lessons through the eyes of a young protagonist. However, the book also deals with mature themes and contains some challenging and emotional scenes, which has led to occasional controversy and attempts to ban it from school libraries.

Many proponents of free speech and intellectual freedom argue against banning books like "A Day No Pigs Would Die," emphasizing the importance of allowing readers to encounter a wide range of perspectives and ideas, even if they are challenging or controversial. Banning books can limit students' access to diverse literature and stifle discussions about important themes and issues. Instead, advocates of open access to books and ideas often recommend that educators and parents engage with students in thoughtful discussions about the content of books and help them navigate challenging or sensitive topics.