Book Review of Pumpkinheads by Rainbow Rowell and Faith Erin Hicks: the perfect Graphic Novel to read during Fall
Synopsis of Pumpkinheads
Deja and Josiah are besties. But the kind of besties that only talk when they’re working at the best pumpkin patch in the entire world during the Halloween season.
But this Halloween is different. It marks their final Halloween before they set off to college.
Their last night together.
Josiah is fixated on being sad and nostalgic the entire night, but Deja is determined to have some fun. Josiah is motivated by her to seize the chance and invite the girl he’s been admiring on a date, while Deja is determined to thoroughly relish every delicious treat the pumpkin patch has in store.
Only the night is the bearer of unforeseen and delightful surprises.
Genres/Categories
YA, Contemporary Romance Graphic Novel, Cozy
Trigger Warnings for Pumkinheads
None that I know of. Do rogue animals count?
Tropes
Friends to Lovers, Falling for the Wrong Person
My Review Of Pumpkinheads
I’m not a seasonal reader. You’ll find me reading books that are set in bleak winter, in lush, vibrant spring.
Some of my favorite books are set in fall or winter. That’s when most of the cozy romances or mysteries take place.
I happened to be looking for a light hearted book with those cozy autumnal vibes, and Pumpkinheads seemed like a gift from the heavens.
“It’s not fate that brings people together. It’s people!”
Pumpkinheads is the kind of graphic novel that is predictable but in a good way!
“I’m…wistful. Contemplative. I’m the sort of guy who likes to reminisce about what might have been…”
Our two protagonists, Josiah and Deja are spending their last night at the pumpkin patch they work at every fall. Josiah just wants to be nostalgic and melancholic, but Deja convinces him to ask the ‘Fudge Girl’ out (Intrigue!).
So they embark on this journey to find the Fudge Girl, but their plans keep getting derailed by apple burglars and Deja’s crazy food cravings.
It’s pretty clear that Deja is suppressing her true feelings towards Josiah throughout the novel, not wanting to disturb the last hurrah. Don’t worry! A happy ending is on its way.
“I’m your friend. And friends don’t let friends live small lives.”
Their friendship is to die for. While Deja is an extrovert, Josiah is more of the quiet kind, and they make a great duo. They truly understand each other.
The art style is incredibly magical, making all the characters, wild animals and decadent dishes come to life.
A few things I loved about this book was that Deja was Bi AND a Person of Color (we love representation!). Moreover, that she was this feisty character who wouldn’t let anything get in the way of her and her treats.
And oh, the treats! Every turn of the page made me drool.
Overall, the Pumkinheads by Rainbow Rowell and Faith Erin Hicks is a beautifully crafted, quick, witty and heartwarming read—deserving of a place on your shelves.
Pumpkinheads in a nutshell
Pros
Beautiful art style, will make you drool and swoon, cinnamon roll characters, very cozy and comforting, fast-paced read.
Cons
None
Recommended for
Pumkinheads is perfect for those in search of an exceptional graphic novel that truly captures the enchantment of autumn and Halloween.
Comment Down Below!
What are some of your favorite books to read during fall? Let me know in the comments!
