The Pumpkin Runner

1. Author: Marsha Diane Arnold
2. Title: The Pumpkin Runner
3. Illustrator: Brad Sneed
4. Genre: Realistic Fiction
5. Subgenre: Individuality
6. Theme: You can do anything you set your mind to.
7. Primary Characters: Joshua Summerhayes, Yellow Dog, Aunt Millie
8. Secondary Characters: Rancher Waudley, Damien Dodgerelle
9. Award/Date: None/1998
10. Publisher: Dial Books for Young Readers
11. Summary: Joshua is a farmer who owns tons of acres with these amazing pumpkins. He runs everywhere he goes. When he heards the sheep, he doesn't use a jeep or a horse. He runs with his dog, Yellow Dog. Later, he discovers that there is a race in town. He decides to join it, despite people thinking there is no way he could run that long. With his perseverance and support from Aunt Millie, Rancher Waudley, Yellow Dog, and the pumpkins, he is able to win and beat Damien Dodgerelle.
12. How Used: This story can be used to teach children that if you believe you can do something, then do it. So many people in life will tell you that you can't do it. You'll just simply have to prove them wrong. This story was actually based on a true story, so it can also expose children to non-fiction/realistic fiction writing that is entertaining.