Pumpkin Soup
by Helen Cooper
A book review by Ailsa Gordon
In the story “Pumpkin Soup”, by Helen Cooper, friends Cat, Duck and
Squirrel live together in an old white cabin with a big pumpkin patch
in the garden. They love to make pumpkin soup together every day. To
ensure they make the most delicious pumpkin soup the three friends
each have a very important job to do. Cat slices the pumpkin, Squirrel stirs in the
water and Duck adds the salt, until one day Duck decides he no longer wants to do his job
but would much rather be the one to stir the soup. Their friendship is challenged as the three
companions explore the possibility of doing things differently and trying something new.
This is a beautiful story of friendship, highlighting the importance of team work and how
everyone plays an essential part in working together to achieve success, no matter what
challenges they encounter.
The book is beautifully illustrated with warm autumn colours, bringing the fun and friendly
characters to life, drawing the reader and listeners in. This is a perfect autumnal story for
children.
As an extension to this story, the children could plant pumpkin seeds, carve pumpkins or make
delicious pumpkin treats. Below is a recipe for healthy pumpkin hummus.