Too Many Pumpkins
on Goodreads (1,790)
What’s inside...
Rebecca Estelle, a woman who has detested pumpkins since childhood, faces a dilemma when her yard becomes filled with pumpkins after accidentally planting seeds from a smashed pumpkin. Instead of letting her dislike take over, she embraces the situation and decides to share her abundance of pumpkins with the community. She creates various pumpkin treats and decorations, which brings joy and happiness to everyone around her.
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Rebecca Estelle
Discussion points
What would you do if you found a lot of pumpkins like Rebecca did?
How do you think Rebecca felt when she saw all the pumpkins growing in her yard?
Why do you think Rebecca decided to share the pumpkins with her neighbors?
Can you think of a time when you shared something with others? How did it make you feel?
What are some ways we can help our neighbors and community, like Rebecca did?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, you can ask your child what they know about pumpkins and discuss different ways they can be used.
Encourage your child to describe what they see in the illustrations and ask them to predict what might happen next in the story.
While discussing the book, focus on the themes of generosity and community. Ask your child how they think Rebecca’s actions made her neighbors feel.
Relate the themes of the book to real-life situations by discussing times when your family has helped others or could help in the future.
After reading, consider engaging in a pumpkin-related activity together, like carving pumpkins or making a pumpkin treat to reinforce the theme and enjoyment of the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Generosity
Explanation: In 'Too Many Pumpkins', the protagonist Rebecca Estelle learns the value of generosity when she decides to share the abundance of pumpkins she unexpectedly grows with her community.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of sharing with others, whether it's their toys, time, or help, enhancing their social interactions and empathy towards others.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Faced with an overwhelming number of pumpkins, Rebecca Estelle creatively turns a problem into an opportunity by using the pumpkins to connect with her neighbors.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that problems can often be opportunities in disguise and encourages them to look for creative solutions in challenging situations.
Example Lesson: Community Building
Explanation: Through her act of sharing the pumpkins, Rebecca Estelle brings her community together, fostering relationships and a sense of belonging.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of being involved in their community and how their actions can positively impact those around them.
Example Lesson: Embracing Unexpected Situations
Explanation: Initially dismayed by the pumpkins, Rebecca Estelle adjusts her attitude and finds joy in the unexpected situation.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that sometimes unanticipated events can turn out to be positive, teaching them flexibility and adaptability.
Example Lesson: Joy of Giving
Explanation: The happiness Rebecca Estelle experiences by hosting a pumpkin party for her neighbors shows the joy that can come from giving and sharing.
Real-World Application: Children comprehend that sharing not only helps others but also enhances their own happiness and life satisfaction.