The Very Unusual Pumpkin

Lulu teaches Grandma how to be a better storyteller in this sly, tenderhearted picture book about learning from each other through humor, imagination, and conversation. Perfect for young readers ages 4-8.

Everyone’s grandma is good at telling stories…except for Lulu’s, that is. So Lulu decides to step in and help! Lulu’s method is asking questions. So when Grandma tells what seems like a mundane story of an ugly pumpkin sitting in a field, Lulu asks: “Why was the pumpkin ugly?”  Grandma’s answer sparks Lulu’s imagination, and she tells Grandma: “That’s not ugly! It’s unusual!” And the two are off on a storytelling adventure! With a little creativity and improvisation, together Lulu and Grandma spin a full, refreshing narrative about a pumpkin and a fairy godmother–as well as the nature of storytelling itself. With its resonant theme that great stories are the result of genuine curiosity and dialogue, The Very Unusual Pumpkin is bound to become a bedtime staple.Winner of the 2015 NCTE Award for Excellence in Poetry, as well as numerous other honors, Marilyn Singer is the author of more than 120 for children and young adults, including Mirror Mirror (Dial), I'm the Big One Now! (Wordsong) and six picture books about Tallulah, a young ballet student (Clarion).  She likes to challenge herself by writing on many topics in many genres. Marilyn lives in Brooklyn, NY and Washington, CT with her husband, who's also her favorite dance partner, and several pets.

Maya Shleifer is an illustrator, author, and designer who loves creating stories that bring laughter and joy to children. She has illustrated over 20 picture books, many of which have been translated and published internationally, reaching children in many countries. Her work has received international recognition and several awards.