Reviews Halloween Treats

This non-spooky Halloween treat consists of two pumpkin-themed picture book adaptations. The humorous Runaway Pumpkin, written by Kevin Lewis and whimsically illustrated by S. D. Schindler, depicts in rhyming couplets a large pumpkin rolling down a hill. Those dodging the pumpkin as it bumps past them imagine – and, later, share in – its delicious potential (e.g., pumpkin pie, bread). Author-illustrator Wendell Minor’s Pumpkin Heads! Is a joyful paean to pumpkins, from the pumpkin patch to carved jack-o’-lanterns. The accompanying study guide is a welcome plus, as is the bonus reading (with captions) of Pumpkin Heads! Both titles feature jaunty background music, appropriate sound effects (pigs squealing, cows mooing, etc.), and David Calabrese’s narration. His robust, kindly voice bespeaks the pleasures and wonders of this autumn celebration. Booklist, October 15, 2008.

(Gr Pre-S –2) Get ready for Halloween with these two picture book stories. Kevin Lewis’ Runaway Pumpkin is a rhyming tale about a giant pumpkin that rolls down a hill past various members of a farm family who all imagine the tasty things grandma might make from it. It ends at the kitchen table, with pumpkin heads and a giant jack-o-lantern. The star of Wendell Minor’s Pumpkin Heads! Are the detailed and varied watercolor illustrations of various types of jack-o-lanterns along with the brief, simple text. The text is also offered as a read-along option. Each story is read by a male narrator with sound effects and original background music that enriches the telling. The illustrations are scanned iconographically, giving viewers a chance to enjoy all the details. Audio and video quality is excellent throughout. A good introduction for jack-o-lantern art projects in October. School Library Journal, October 2008

Young viewers ages 4-8 are the target audience for this festive two-fer that includes iconographic-animated versions of the picture books, The Runaway Pumpkin and Pumpkin Heads!, both narrated by Dave Calabrese. Written by Kevin Lewis and illustrated by S.D.Schindler. The Runaway Pumpkin serves up a rhyme about the three Baxter siblings, who lose control of a gigantic pumpkin that rolls down a hill, thumping and bumping its way through the family farm. Fortunately, none of the barnyard animals are hurt, soothe Baxter parents and grandfolks aren’t too ruffled…and in fact have visions of gourd-friendly cuisine such as pumpkin pie, soup, and bread dancing through their heads. Author and illustrator Wendell Minor’s Pumpkin Heads! Celebrates Halloween and features lifelike depictions of many types of carved out jack-o-lanterns, including cowboys, snowmen, and scarecrows. Far from frightening, this fun and festive compilation is a real treat for younger viewers. Video Librarian, November-December, 2008.

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