Pumpkin Soup Award-winning by Helen Cooper (author) (UK edition)

Our October 2020 Ages 5-6 Book of the Month

My pick for October is a faithful classic that has become much beloved, and I’ve selected it because I think it’s the perfect ‘snuggle up and share’ bedtime story for those approaching October dark, autumnal nights – when the light dims and you want a brilliant bedtime read full of character and warmth. If you like a book with a pinch of heart and a cosy, traditional and classic feel (with illustrations as warm as the fireside), this is for you. Cat, Duck and Squirrel follow the same routine every day to make their pumpkin soup. Each has their own set role. Each is happy. Until Duck decides he fancies a change…

Helen Cooper conjures up a tale that moves from calm to chaotic with shades of funny and feisty. We learn that families take the form of all different shapes, but everyone has their own place and sometimes there are ups and downs! Love, friendship, empathy and understanding underpin this story. A great tale to get families reading together and stats show that reading for pleasure is strongly influenced by parents who read to children at home. I have very fond memories of reading this aloud to my children at this time of year. What are your favourites?

Yvonne – Book Club Editor, Ages 0–6