We’re Going on a Pumpkin Hunt

Originally published in the U.K., this sweet picture book riffs on the classic folk song widely known as “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt.” Three children—a light-skinned child with a black bowl cut in a skeleton costume; a curly-haired, brown-skinned kid dressed as a mummy; and a pale, freckled, orange-haired child in witchy black garb—set out from a house, seeking a sizable pumpkin. Hawk employs a holiday-appropriate refrain to trace their journey through bright green grassland and light blue skies: “We’re going on a pumpkin hunt./ We’re going to find a big one./ What a beautiful night!/ We’re not scared.” Obstacles including “watchful, green-eyed cats” “sticky spiders’ cobwebs,” and “flying, flapping bats”—with relevant onomatopoeia and repetition for each—are no deterrent for the young adventurers, despite appearing in humorously large numbers. Solid, bright colors and generally smiley characters by Rozelaar keep the mood light, even amid shadows and a supernatural surprise, in this seasonal update. Ages 4–8. (July)