Pumpkin Soup

Celebrate 25 years of this timeless classic

Helen Cooper author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Penguin Random House Children's UK

Published:1st Oct '99

Currently unavailable, our supplier has not provided us a restock date

Pumpkin Soup cover

In Pumpkin Soup, three friends navigate the ups and downs of friendship while preparing their favorite dish, emphasizing the importance of sharing and collaboration.

In an enchanting woodland, three friends—Cat, Duck, and Squirrel—live in an old white cabin surrounded by a thriving pumpkin patch. Each day, they come together to create their beloved pumpkin soup. Cat skillfully slices the pumpkins, Squirrel stirs in water, and Duck adds just the right amount of salt. Their collaboration fills the air with a delightful aroma, making their cabin a cozy haven for all who pass by. As night falls, one might catch a glimpse of Cat playing the bagpipes, Squirrel strumming a banjo, and Duck singing softly, creating an atmosphere of warmth and friendship.

However, harmony is tested when Duck expresses a desire to take on the stirring role. This change leads to playful squabbles among the trio, highlighting the challenges of sharing and collaboration. The story beautifully illustrates the dynamics of friendship, showcasing how even the closest companions can face misunderstandings. Through their journey, children learn valuable lessons about compromise and the importance of working together.

Pumpkin Soup is not just a tale about cooking; it’s a heartfelt narrative that emphasizes the significance of sharing and teamwork. This 25th anniversary edition, adorned with autumnal illustrations, is perfect for bedtime reading, inviting children into a world filled with laughter and camaraderie. Helen Cooper's award-winning storytelling captures the essence of friendship, making it a timeless addition to any child's bookshelf.

Pumpkin Soup, with its rhythmic text, syncopated layout, and rich and hot colour harmonies, is both a musical comedy and a visual feast. The trio are outrageously attractive characters and such is Cooper's command of technical effects, you can almost taste the colours, touch the textures and lose yourself in the autumnal landscape -- Jan Doonan * TES *
Enticing * Sunday Telegraph *
A portable work of art, glowing the rich colours of autumn . . . A highly inventive, witty slant on a familiar theme of friendship and sharing which children of ages three and up will adore * Bookseller *
Here is a story of friendship lost and regained, told with insight and understanding, not only as far as the characters are concerned, but as to how a picture book works . . . The book is brilliantly constructed * Child Education *
The stunning lustrous illustrations which accompany this story reflect its warmth, vivacity and humour * Books Etc. *

  • Winner of Kate Greenaway Medal 1999
  • Short-listed for LA Kate Greenaway Medal 1999
  • Short-listed for Kurt Maschler Award 1998

ISBN: 9780552545105

Dimensions: 260mm x 260mm x 3mm

Weight: 184g

32 pages