Sometimes we get so caught up in the craft of what we are doing and the hoops that often need to be jumped through for publication that we forget the why. Why do we want to get books in children's hands? What kinds of messages do we want to give kids about themselves and the world we live in? Most editors are well-aware of the power of children's books to transform lives either through laughter and delight or through the sensitive exploration of ideas and experiences relevant to their lives. And like me, they are drawn to both kinds of books.Today I have a big soft spot for the second kind of book as seen in this sensitive exploration of farmer's markets through the eyes of a young boy. The author/illustrator, Linda Knoll, was concerned that so many kids were disenfranchised from their food source and ignorant about how food is grown. She also wanted to shine a light on the wonderful world of farmer's markets. So she created the concept book - Patient for Pumpkins. It is a beautiful quiet book that combines both fact and fiction and was published by North Atlantic Press, who publish socially aware books. So let's have a look at how former student and current friend Linda Knoll created Patient for Pumpkins.
22 Comments
11/9/2014 11:59:57 pm
Mira, thanks for the thoughtful post! I love books like this also--in fact THE RAINDROP WHO COULDN'T FALL is similar. There's a fictional story alongside facts about the water cycle and states of matter:)
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Mira
11/11/2014 04:01:48 am
Wonderful Kirsti :) I love these kinds of books too, as you could probably tell.
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11/10/2014 12:30:07 am
What a lovely book. So glad you picked it. I love the idea of it. Having grown up on a farm, I've a bit of soft spot for this. And I've not heard of that publisher, so that's great info as well. Thanks!
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Mira
11/11/2014 04:03:11 am
Johnell, it really is a very heartfelt book, this is great for adults like you to read to their kids so they can know what it was like for you as a kid. And I'm glad I introduced you to a new publisher! Yay!
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Maria Oka
11/10/2014 12:36:03 am
Lovely book! Reminds me that I need to take my girls to our local farmers market more often. Thank you for the post!
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Mira
11/11/2014 04:04:25 am
Farmers markets are loads of fun for kids, there's so many colorful fruits and vegetables that they might not be familiar with, and you often get free samples! That's the best part, yum! :)
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Sandie Sing
11/10/2014 01:47:18 am
I am happy that you have selected Linda's book. I think this is a wonderful book that parents and teachers would use with their children during farmers market season. I could see a farmers market product being shared after reading the story. Linda did a fabulous job with this story. Congrats to Linda! You must be proud of your students.
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Mira
11/11/2014 04:05:49 am
Sandie that sounds like a wonderful Classroom exercise, I love it! And I am always so proud, it's a wonderful feeling knowing that they are so successful.
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Manju
11/10/2014 02:39:18 am
Thank you, Mira! Patient for Pumpkins will be a perfect present for my nephew.
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Mira
11/11/2014 04:07:06 am
Wonderful! Take him to a farmers market as well if they're still in season. Always an exciting activity for kids, and lots of free samples!
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11/10/2014 03:15:03 am
This looks absolutely lovely! Must check it out :) Thank, Mira!
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Mira
11/11/2014 04:07:26 am
It really is lovely Joanne!
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Charlotte Dixon
11/10/2014 09:14:01 am
Love farmers' markets. I grew up in an ag area and didn't realize how blessed I was to have such bounty around me. This book is a must and the illustrations outstanding.
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Mira
11/11/2014 04:08:37 am
Yes, a lot of kids don't get to experience the wonders of fresh produce, especially those that live in cities, this just gives them a little preview of it and hopefully an interest in fresh food!
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11/10/2014 10:56:31 am
Incredible illustrations - love the idea behind the story. And the fact that kids can learn information while reading such a fabulous book. (BTW You look great Mira - love the color of your shirt against your red hair :)
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Mira
11/11/2014 04:09:37 am
Haha, Angela, you always flatter me.
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Debra A Bergerson
11/10/2014 09:58:03 pm
Thank you Mira for a look at Linda's beautifuly illustrated story. The cover had me hooked!
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Mira
11/11/2014 04:10:27 am
Can't you just smell those fall fragrances? It's so beautifully illustrated, and the colors are so vibrant. Love this book!
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11/11/2014 03:50:17 am
Lovely looking book and deserves to do well. Really good illustrations and well done to Linda if she did this all herself !
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Mira
11/11/2014 04:12:00 am
Linda really is that amazing. So glad you enjoyed this Clive.
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Nikki T. Carter
11/11/2014 06:12:45 am
Fabulous! I love books that center around the fruits & vegetables of the earth because they're true gifts from Jehovah. Thanks I really enjoyed!!
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11/24/2014 05:11:45 am
Will definitely look this one up. I like the side bars of educational meaning. Beautifully rendered illustrations.
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