Pumpkin Picture Books to Read this Fall in Your Classroom

Aubrey De Jesus • October 7, 2024

As a teacher and school librarian for many years, from preschool to middle school, I have found one thing to be true across the board: Children of all ages love to be read to. It doesn’t matter the age, kids love listening to a good story and become easily entranced by a good read aloud.

Here are 4 fall-themed picture books about pumpkins to read to your class, no matter the age. These can be used with a craft or activity for elementary students, or read in the last 5 minutes of class as a change of pace for the older ones; the sky’s the limit! Also, suggested grades listed below, but they can really be enjoyed by all ages.


How Many Seeds in a Pumpkin? by Margaret MacNamara

This one is a classic about a teacher who uses pumpkins and their seeds to practice estimation, counting, and skip counting. I’ve seen this book used in a classroom where the teacher read the book and then the students actually did the activity of carving pumpkins and counting their seeds. Even if you don’t use real pumpkins, you can still use this book to reinforce these skills.

Grades: Preschool - Second Grade

How Big Could Your Pumpkin Grow? by Wendell Minor

At fairs across the country, pumpkin contests take place to determine the largest pumpkins grown. In this whimsical book, children use their imaginations to see what really large pumpkins could be carved into? 

This book features really large pumpkins decorating famous landmarks around the United States, such as Mount Rushmore and the Grand Canyon, so it’s a great resource to review (or introduce) Geography. This book also focuses on vocabulary, using various synonyms for big. At the end of the book, it also has some facts about the locations mentioned throughout the book. 

Grades: Preschool - Fourth Grade

Too Many Pumpkins by Linda White

This heartwarming classic follows Rebecca who hates pumpkins, after eating them so much growing up. One day, a pumpkin falls off a truck and shatters in her garden. She shovels dirt and forgets about them, only to come back a few weeks later to find a sea of pumpkins. Now she needs to figure out how to share these pumpkins with others. This one has beautiful illustrations and a great message. 

Grades: Kindergarten - Third Grade

The Roll-Away Pumpkin by Junia Wonders

Marla’s pumpkin is rolling away! Will she be able to catch up to it before it’s gone forever? This is a sequencing tale; as Marla passes people in her community, they join the pumpkin chase and the story becomes sillier and sillier. 

This book is all about those Fall vibes. From the colors to the images, the beauty of Fall really shines through. 

Grades: Preschool - Kindergarten

I hope you and your students enjoy these pumpkin read-alouds this Fall, and hopefully they spur some fun, pumpkin-themed activities and learning experiences!

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By Aubrey DeJesus • February 12, 2025
This is a subtitle for your new postFebruary is known for two major events: Valentine’s Day and Black History Month. This is a great opportunity to check out some picture books detailing the accomplishments of Black Americans both past and present. I’ve rounded up 5 picture books you can read with your kids or students this month to give them a better understanding of why it is important to celebrate these accomplishments. These books should be a stepping point to further conversations about inclusion, acceptance, and empathy. We were all made in the Lord’s image and deserve respect and acceptance by all. I’ve also made sure to include books that reach beyond just slavery and civil rights movements since Black History Month extends beyond that.

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By Aubrey DeJesus • June 18, 2024
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By Aubrey DeJesus • May 13, 2024
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By Aubrey De Jesus • April 9, 2024
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