Pumpkin Soup
By Helen Cooper
The Story
Three friends — a Cat, a Squirrel, and a Duck — make pumpkin soup the same way every day, until the Duck demands to stir instead and storms off after a squabble.
Why It's Special
For the kid who has stormed off mid-game because things weren't going their way, this one names that exact feeling and sits with it.
- Big idea: Friendship means making room for everyone's job to change sometimes, even when routines feel safest as they are.
- Vibes: Cozy, autumnal, quietly tender — a warm cabin glow with real feelings underneath.
Perfect For Kids Who
- are working on sharing roles and taking turns
- respond well to a comforting, repeated routine
- enjoy cozy stories set in autumn
- like to talk through squabbles with friends
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & problem-solving: Why do you think the Duck wanted to stir the soup instead of adding the salt?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think the Cat and the Squirrel felt when the Duck left in a huff?
- Real-life connection: Have you ever wanted to do someone else's job in a game and it caused a fight?
- Imagination: If you made pumpkin soup with your friends, what job would you want?
- Feelings & empathy: What could the three friends say to each other to fix the squabble?
