This was the sweetest book! I'd love to add it to my fall collection in my speech and language classroom as it includes not only a great story but so many descriptive words that we work on in class! The pictures are very engaging and lead themselves to further discussion, encouraging a lot of language use!

A very cute story that will help children to understand even if we look different we are all unique, and should respect others' differences, and that our differences are something that we can celebrate. There was good use of descriptive vocabulary and varying sentence structures. The illustrations are VERY cute - and I enjoy the text being colored/bold/capitalized etc to emphasis different words. This will be an amazing book for Primary students (especially in the fall/autumn) and will help start discussions about differences, being kind to others, and celebrating what makes us unique. As a Primary school teacher - this is a book that I would definitely use, and can think of lots of great activities/lessons that could be created to accompany the book.

This was such an adorable and engaging little book about embracing diversity and self-love, with two very enthusiastic thumbs up from my 5-year-old nephew and a promise to read it with him again. The writing was clear and easy to understand, whilst opening conversation around accepting differences in yourself and in others. A great addition to the toolkit. A hearty 5/5 pumpkins from us! 🎃

What if being different is exactly what makes you perfect?

This was a really lovely little story and I loved the messaging.

The story is easy to follow and well written, it is perfect for the target age range.

The illustrations are spot on and really bring the Bumpy Pumpkin's story to life.

It is 5 stars from me for this one - very highly recommended and a lovely Autumnal read!

Book Review: The Bumpy Pumpkin by Natalie Horseman, Kelsey Marshalsey (Illustrator)

Rating: 5 Stars

The Bumpy Pumpkin by Natalie Horseman is an absolute delight — five stars without hesitation. This sweet little picture book tells the story of a lonely, lumpy pumpkin in Stephens Farm’s patch who feels out of place among the smooth, perfectly orange pumpkins. He worries his colorful bumps will keep him from being chosen for Halloween, until a thoughtful girl named Olivia arrives and sees the beauty in what makes him different. It’s a simple, warm tale about self-acceptance, kindness, and finding where you belong, and it lands every note without being heavy-handed.

What I loved most: the illustrations are lovely — bright, full-color pages that really draw you into the farm and the pumpkins’ world. The cover is charming and instantly inviting, and the art throughout feels cozy and seasonal, perfect for story time in the fall. The text is straightforward and easy for young listeners to follow, but the message is powerful: our quirks can be our strengths, and being different is something to celebrate.

This one is ideal for reading aloud to little ones (ages 3–8), for classroom discussions about acceptance or self-esteem, or as a Halloween/ autumn read that’s heartwarming rather than spooky. It would also make a thoughtful gift for a young reader who’s learning to appreciate their uniqueness.

If you want a gentle, positive story that pairs lovely illustrations with a memorable lesson about kindness and self-worth, The Bumpy Pumpkin is a perfect pick. A cozy, charming addition to any child’s bookshelf.

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

Am I getting emotional over a book about a bumpy pumpkin? YES. YES, I AM.

The artwork is gorgeous, with full color illustrations on every page that pull you right into the story. The narrative itself is simple, but the message is so impactful: the very qualities that make us different are also what make us special. Not everyone will see it, but the people who matter will.

I adore this bumpy pumpkin. Personally, I’ve always been drawn to the odd little pumpkins at the patch, so this story hit home. I can easily see this becoming an annual fall tradition: read the book together, then head out to pick your own pumpkin. The same way ’Twas the Night Before Christmas is tied to Christmas Eve, this could be the perfect autumn ritual.

Thank you to NetGalley, Horseman Publishing, and Natalie Horseman for this advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion.