Schwartz, David. Rotten Pumpkin: A Rotten Tale in 15 Voices. Dwight Kuhn, Illus. Non-fic. Creston, 2013. 32p. $16.99. 978-1-939547-03-3. OUTSTANDING. GRADES PRE-1.
This non-fiction narrative uses the perspective of fifteen “voices” to tell the story of how a jack-o-lantern rots and returns to the earth to be born again in time for next Halloween. From a slug to Fusarium rot, to a sow bug to yeast, this book sings their praises as a host of nature’s creatures nibble on, vomit on, and sprout on our dear little pumpkin. With eye-arresting photographs and down-to-earth text, the complicated science of rot, fermentation, and decomposition is made surprisingly beautiful and fun. Rich back matter includes a detailed glossary and suggestions for classroom investigations that elevates this book to a shining example of what we can hope to expect from other offerings supportive of the new Common Core standards.
Celia Jackson, Oakland PL