About This Book
In Joan Bauer's debut novel, "Squashed," readers meet 16-year-old Ellie Morgan, whose biggest concerns are her potentially prize-winning pumpkin and her crush on the new boy in town, Wes. Set against the backdrop of rural Iowa, the story charmingly weaves together Ellie's efforts to nurture her pumpkin to a record weight with her personal journey of self-acceptance and first love. The book explores themes of perseverance, self-confidence, and the everyday challenges of being a teenager, all delivered with a light, humorous touch. It's a heartwarming read for young adults navigating their own growth, both internal and external.
Humor, agriculture and young love all come together in Joan Bauer's first novel, set in rural Iowa. Sixteen-year-old Ellie Morgan's life would be almost perfect if she could just get her potentially prize-winning pumpkin to put on about 200 more pounds—and if she could take off 20 herself...in hopes of attracting Wes, the new boy in town.
Romantic Content
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Discussion Prompts
1
What challenges did Ellie face with her pumpkin, and how did she overcome them?
2
How did Ellie's feelings about herself change throughout the story?
3
What does this book teach us about perseverance and believing in yourself?
4
How important is it to be true to yourself when you like someone new?
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