The Pesky Problem

By: Cristina Garcia
Illustrated by: Lenka Knoetze & Amy De Vries
Publisher: Atmosphere Press
Publication Date: March 25, 2025
ISBN: 979-8891325272
Reviewed by: Diana Coyle
Review Date: May 1, 2025

The Pesky Problem by Cristina Garcia is the story of an issue that has been bothering a pumpkin and gourd patch daily. Everyday, pesky crows want to feed on the various pumpkins and gourds in this patch located in the colorful countryside, leading to the flock of crows pecking them incessantly.

The pumpkins and gourds try thinking of a way to stop the mean crows from being a nuisance. One pumpkin comes up with the idea of borrowing the local corn field’s scarecrow. She has watched the field for days, and noticed the crows have left the corn fields alone once the scarecrow was put in place. That may very well be the solution for the pumpkins and gourds. But when they go to talk to the ears of corn and present their dilemma, the ears of corn laugh at them for even thinking they would lend them their scarecrow. Defeated, the pumpkins and gourds return to their patch and come up with another plan. Does their plan work this time for them? Do the crows finally leave the pumpkin patch alone?

This was such an adorable story for readers of any age to enjoy. First, it was so entertaining to read about pumpkins, gourds, and ears of corn that were alive and talking. Each had their own personality, which made developing feelings for them extremely easy for the readers right from the start. The manner in which this dilemma was presented to the readers will teach young children that if at first you don’t succeed, try again. When Warty Goblin came up with a back-up plan, readers can’t help but cheer him on and hope his plan will work to protect his patch from the crows.

The illustrations provided by both Lenka Knoetze and Amy De Vries were not only a delight to look at, but were found on every single page of this adorable children’s book. The colors were vivid and eye-catching, and the illustrations perfectly complemented the written word from the author.

Quill says: The Pesky Problem by Cristina Garcia not only teaches children a valuable lesson about teamwork, but will also entertain readers of all ages with the whimsical story and eye-catching illustrations.

For more information about The Pesky Problem, please visit the publisher's website at: www.atmospherepress.com/books/the-pesky-problem-by-cristina-garcia.