Description:
Perfect for autumn storytimes and holiday book read-alouds, this tender picture book stars a young girl who watches over her pumpkin patch and celebrates her well-earned harvest.
When Lilly spots something leafy and green growing from their compost bin she learns--Surprise!--they're pumpkins growing from the mushy jack-o'-lanterns her family tossed in last fall. She takes good care of the little pumpkins all summer, protecting them from creatures who might like a nibble and checking in on their growth. And when, finally, the pumpkins are bright orange and plump and the family has more of the gourds than they can enjoy, what's left to do but share?
Backmatter includes information on gardening and pumpkin recipes.
Brief description:
Beth Charles grew up in northern New Jersey and always thought she'd be a librarian like her mom or a teacher like her dad. Instead, she married a librarian and became a museum curator. Later, she and her husband moved to Vermont, and along with several family members, bought Mendon Mountain Orchards, a historic apple orchard. Now that one of her grown children owns the orchard, Beth has more time to knit, write books for kids, and spend time with her grandchildren.
Review Quotes: A warm tale that explores the rewards of patience, the magic of nature, and the joy of rural living.-- "Kirkus Reviews" (4/6/2026 12:00:00 AM)