Monday, October 18, 2010

Book Nook - The Very Best Pumpkin

The Very Best Pumpkin written by Mark Kimball Moulton & illustrated by Karen Hillard Good is a sweet story about a little boy who tends to a little pumpkin growing all by itself on the edge of the pumpkin patch.  This pumpkin grows to become the perfect pumpkin, perfect for giving to a new friend.

There are two things I love about this book...the story and the illustrations!  The story unfolds nicely & it is very touching to watch Peter & Meg's friendship grow.  I actually got a little teary-eyed the first couple of times we read the book when Peter gives the pumpkin to Meg.  It was such a kind, selfless act.  I don't think it was the intention of the author, but I also thought the story was rather....romantic.  I know, I know, it's a children's book!  But when Peter gave the pumpkin to Meg, it just struck me that these two just belong together.

And the illustrations....oh, the illustrations!  They are quaint & whimsical, with a vintage feel to them.  There are little curlicues everywhere - for flight paths of butterflies & bees and tendrils of plants & pumpkins.  Mustard yellow, burnt orange & moss green permeates the palette.  The ladybugs are perhaps the cutest I've ever seen illustrated.  And the coolest part?  The illustrator used watercolors along with instant coffee & bleach to create the pictures!  Even if you don't actually read the story (which would be a pity) just looking at the pictures is a treat!

Like Peter's pumpkin, this book is just perfect.  And also just like that special pumpkin, it's perfect for sharing!  Enjoy!

Cheryl 

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