Pinky and Rex and the Perfect Pumpkin

October 1, 1998
Gr 1-3-In this addition to the series, Howe shows his keen understanding of the struggle children go through when learning to balance peer relationships with feelings of jealousy and anger. Rex, who has always felt like part of her best friend Pinky's family, is excited about going on their traditional pumpkin-picking weekend with Pinky's grandparents, his little sister, and his cousin Abby. However, Rex soon discovers that something is different this year. Abby refuses to talk to her, makes fun of her, and continually makes her feel left out. That night, someone smashes the jack-o'-lantern that Grandpa had carved. In the morning, the culprit is revealed, along with Rex's and Abby's feelings. Howe's realistic portrayal of Abby's exclusionary tactics and Rex's jealousy, coupled with Sweet's supportive watercolor paintings, make for a believable tale. The understanding grandparents set the stage for the children to resolve their conflicts and take another step toward maturity. This sensitive story is a must for early chapter-book collections and is perfect for all seasons. It will provide solace to readers as they struggle with the realities of growing up.-Gale W. Sherman, Pocatello Public Library, ID

September 1, 1998
Gr. 2^-4. Pinky, his little sister, Amanda, and his cousin Abby are joined by Rex on their annual pumpkin-picking weekend at Pinky's grandparents' cabin. Rex remembers her parents' warning not to leave Amanda out of the fun this year, but soon Rex feels like an outsider, as Abby seems determined to make sure Rex doesn't see herself as one of the family. When the "perfect" pumpkin is smashed in the middle of the night, Abby and Rex accuse each other. Ultimately, Pinky's family apologizes for hurting Rex's feelings, and Rex apologizes for wrecking the pumpkin. Most of the story is told from Rex's point of view, so it's a little awkward that readers don't immediately know whether she smashed the pumpkin or not. On the other hand, the children's rift and reconciliation are handled with more realism and finesse than in most books for this age group. Even after Abby apologized, too, Rex "tried to smile, but there was still a lot of hurt inside her." ((Reviewed September 1, 1998))(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 1998, American Library Association.)