Old Martha has a tough time living alone on her mountain pasture. She keeps a pig named Emil to ensure she has enough to eat during the winter. When she decides to take Emil to the butcher, he immediately senses that something is wrong. Martha begins to doubt as well. But in front of the slaughterhouse, she is certain: she will never take Emil there! And what about the next winter? Those who do good will also receive good in return - at least that's how it is for Martha. Hans Traxler tells this touching yet humorous story with a wink and many colorful illustrations of Emil, the pig who has had a lucky break.