You're My Little Pumpkin Pie

You’re My Little Pumpkin Pie is giving me the squishy, snuggly side of the season. Sweet rhymes, gorgeous autumnal colours and little creatures being reminded just how loved they are.

Natalie Marshall’s illustrations move us through day and night in a lush autumnal palette. There is warmth throughout, and the cutaway shapes give little fingers something to investigate while framing Nicola Edwards’s affectionate words.

But my favourite thing about those cutaways? A creature who appears to be all alone on one page turns out not to be alone at all. Oh, there you are!

That little reveal feels especially lovely in a book about belonging. We turn the page and find somebody there. Somebody who loves our little creature. I love that the reassurance is tucked into the page turn itself. You thought you were alone? Oh, little creature, look who’s here!

Edwards’s sweet rhymes make this an easy one to share aloud, with reassuring affirmations of love and care throughout. I can imagine slowing down with this at bedtime, letting small hands explore the shapes while we settle into the words.

I am VERY happy to spend Halloween making an enormous amount of noise. But by bedtime? Pass me the adorable creatures and reassuring rhymes, please. Every spooky soul needs a little softness, don’t they?

This would make a lovely gentle bedtime board book for little readers who prefer the softer side of the season.

My little pumpkin pie, you absolute sweetie.

Creep on Reading, Pumpkins!