Discover your next great read with our book reviews
Cover of PUMPKIN AND BEETLE
3.69

Based on 45 Goodreads ratings

PUMPKIN AND BEETLE

by curious creatures\u003B their elementary school classmates include a mummy, a pumpkinhead, a witch, and a wolf. When Pumpkin and Beetle spot a comic book they want to buy in the town bookshop, they realize they need to earn money to buy it. A brainstorming session ensues, and they finally settle on selling crabapples. That idea is a bust (“I can find crabapples in the forest!” one of their prospective customers tells them), so they make various entrepreneurial pivots to create a more exciting product, eventually cooking up some rather burnt crabapple muffins. These, too, are a flop, and Pumpkin and Beetle are close to despair, but a timely barter just might be the solution to their conflict. An enjoyable exercise in persistence, problem\u002Dsolving, and happy compromise, this graphic novel features succinct text, ideal for readers of many skill levels, while the cartooning is more sweet than spooky. One of the friendly recurring characters is a floating, silently supportive pink ghost cat named Boo—an especially adorable addition. A glimpse into the comic that Pumpkin and Beetle are obsessed with purchasing and a presumably yummier apple muffin recipe round out the book."

Book Details

Publisher:Of
Published:2024-01-01
Format:paperback
Language:English
ISBN:9780823459

Reading Info

Age Range:12-18

About This Book

This charming picture book introduces young readers to the unlikely friendship between a cheerful pumpkin and a curious beetle, exploring themes of companionship and seeing beyond appearances. Throug...

Our Review

This charming picture book introduces young readers to the unlikely friendship between a cheerful pumpkin and a curious beetle, exploring themes of companionship and seeing beyond appearances. Through simple yet engaging storytelling, the narrative follows their seasonal adventures in the garden where they discover that true friendship can blossom between the most different of creatures. The gentle pacing and warm tone make this an ideal bedtime story for preschoolers and early elementary children. Vivid illustrations bring the garden setting to life with rich autumn colors and expressive character details that will captivate young audiences.

What sets this children's book apart is its subtle incorporation of natural science elements woven seamlessly into the friendship narrative. Children will absorb basic concepts about plant growth and insect behavior while being thoroughly entertained by the characters' interactions. The story's emotional depth—touching on inclusion, empathy, and finding common ground—makes it valuable for both classroom read-aloud sessions and family reading time. Parents and educators will appreciate how this deceptively simple tale opens doors to meaningful conversations about friendship and nature, leaving young readers with both warmth and wonder.

0