Grumpy Pumpkin
illustrations by
What’s inside...
A cute, heartwarming, and inspirational story about a little pumpkin named Percival P. Pumpkin who is judged by his outward appearance rather than his true self inside. Despite his struggles with losing his smile around Halloween, his favorite time of year, he attends the Pick a Pumpkin for Your Porch event. Here, a little girl with a crooked smile helps him realize the importance of loving oneself and embracing one's unique qualities. The story is crafted by Michael and his son Lennon, who based it on a school project. Proceeds from the book support children in need of behavioral development services, which have greatly benefited Lennon, a neurodivergent and socially emotional child powered by ADHD.
Discussion points
Why do you think the pumpkin is grumpy?
What could make the pumpkin feel better?
How do the other characters react to the pumpkin's mood?
Can you think of a time when you felt like the grumpy pumpkin?
What does the story teach us about dealing with our feelings?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their emotions by relating to the grumpy pumpkin. Ask them to think about times when they have felt similar emotions and what helped them feel better. Highlight the importance of empathy by discussing how understanding and kindness can affect others' feelings. Use the story as a tool to talk about different ways of managing emotions and the impact they have on others.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Emotions
Explanation: In 'Grumpy Pumpkin', the main character, a pumpkin named Gus, experiences a range of emotions, teaching children that it’s okay to feel grumpy sometimes.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to identify and express their feelings in a healthy way, understanding that all emotions are part of the human experience.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Through interactions with other characters who try to cheer Gus up, children see the importance of being kind and understanding towards others' feelings.
Real-World Application: Kids can practice empathy by acknowledging their friends' feelings and offering support, mirroring the interactions seen in the book.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Gus the pumpkin faces several challenges in his story, and children learn how he navigates these issues, showing problem-solving in action.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to think creatively and persistently in solving their own problems, whether it’s dealing with a personal conflict or tackling a difficult task at school.
Example Lesson: The Power of Friendship
Explanation: As Gus interacts with his friends, the story highlights how friends can help us through tough times, emphasizing the value of friendships.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to maintain and value friendships, understanding how forming positive relationships can offer emotional support and happiness.
Example Lesson: Acceptance
Explanation: By the end of the book, Gus learns to accept his feelings and understands that it's natural to have both good and bad days, teaching children about self-acceptance.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children to embrace their own unique emotions and situations, fostering a sense of self-compassion and understanding.