Pumpkinheads

By Rainbow Rowell

Illustrated by Faith Erin Hicks

My review:

Josie and Deja have been working together at a pumpkin patch for much of their high school years. They’re pretty good friends and enjoy each other’s company during the season, but they don’t talk much outside of work. This Halloween they’ll be saying goodbye for good as both prepare to begin their college life. Josie’s pretty depressed about it; he loves everything about the pumpkin patch, especially being the MVPPP (Most Valuable Pumpkin Patch Person). Deja seems more optimistic about it and mentions coming back for visits.

Deja’s convinced she’s going make this Halloween the best ever. Her plan is to finally get Josie hitched up with a girl that works with them. He’s been daydreaming about this girl for years, but he’s hesitant to talk to her. Deja won’t take no for an answer as she plans to make their last night at the Patch one to remember.

This was such a cute story that really took me back to my teen years. It’s both funny and emotional. Being the Halloween and autumn lover that I am, the setting is perfect. The Patch isn’t like pumpkin patches I’ve been to; its more like a huge fall fest with delicious food and fun things to do. Sweet treats, corn mazes, hay rides, gourdy golf, and a petting zoo–who wouldn’t love this place? The atmosphere is intoxicating for any fall aficionado.

As far as characters: Deja and Josie were both lovable. Deja was probably my favorite though; she’s the kind of friend everyone needs. I like that she’s funloving and caring, but (for the most part) still isn’t afraid to say what she feels. Deja’s more of an extrovert as she’s been around the block a time or two, whereas Josie is more introverted and unsure of himself. They make a great pair, accepting one another for who they are. Friendship is a beautiful theme throughout.

The illustrations are gorgeous, which really bring out the autumnal atmosphere and the characters’ emotions. This is a perfect graphic novel for this time of year. Highly recommend this one.

5*****

Find this book on Goodreads and Amazon:

• Hardcover: 224 pages
• Publisher: First Second (August 27, 2019)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 125031285X
• ISBN-13: 978-1250312853

From Goodreads:

Deja and Josiah are seasonal best friends.

Every autumn, all through high school, they’ve worked together at the best pumpkin patch in the whole wide world. (Not many people know that the best pumpkin patch in the whole wide world is in Omaha, Nebraska, but it definitely is.) They say good-bye every Halloween, and they’re reunited every September 1.

But this Halloween is different—Josiah and Deja are finally seniors, and this is their last season at the pumpkin patch. Their last shift together. Their last good-bye.

Josiah’s ready to spend the whole night feeling melancholy about it. Deja isn’t ready to let him. She’s got a plan: What if—instead of moping and the usual slinging lima beans down at the Succotash Hut—they went out with a bang? They could see all the sights! Taste all the snacks! And Josiah could finally talk to that cute girl he’s been mooning over for three years . . .

What if their last shift was an adventure?

Thanks for reading my review. Have you read this book? What books are you reading this fall? Feel free to share your thoughts or recommendations below!

🧡 Mischenko 🍂