Whilst browsing my local library's graphic novel section I came across Pumpkinheads, a standalone book by Rainbow Rowell and Faith Erin Hicks. I picked it up as I knew Rowell through her great run on She-Hulk and Hicks I had known for many years as I had many of her graphic novels already. With this dream team, how would Pumpkinhead fare?
The story follows Deja and Josiah, two long-time best friends who have spent every fall working at the same pumpkin patch. As seniors in high school, this particular Halloween night marks their last shift together before they head off to separate colleges. Driven by Deja's infectious energy and a desire to make their final night memorable, the duo embarks on a quest across the sprawling pumpkin patch to find Josiah's long-standing crush, the elusive Fudge Girl (as she works at the fudge shoppe, obviously). What unfolds is a series of comical mishaps, poignant revelations, and an exploration of their own evolving relationship in a road movie-type journey, except it's in one contained area.
This is a charmingly low stakes graphic novel that encapsulates the bittersweet essence of late summer and being on the cusp of change. It was a delightful read and perfect for those seeking a heartwarming, low-stakes adventure.
Rowell's strength (as far as my limited experience with her writing in She-Hulk allows) lies in her ability to craft authentic, relatable characters and snappy, naturalistic dialogue, and Pumpkinheads is no exception. Deja is the spirited, outgoing catalyst, pushing Josiah, the more introspective and hesitant of the pair, out of his comfort zone. Their dynamic is the beating heart of the story; their banter is genuinely funny, and their shared history is palpable. Hicks's art perfectly capturing the nuanced expressions and body language that convey their deep bond.
Hicks's artwork is a perfect complement to Rowell's storytelling. Her clean lines, expressive character designs, and warm, inviting color palette, all warm oranges, pastel purples and deep navies, evokes the cozy, autumnal atmosphere of the pumpkin patch beautifully. Also, the visual humor lands effectively, and the panels flow smoothly, making for a quick and engaging read. The repeating joke of the search for Buck, the angry escaped goat, is hilarious.
Throughout the book, Hicks manages to convey emotion with subtlety, allowing the reader to feel the characters' joy, frustration, and budding affection.
The themes explored are universally resonant: the anxiety of impending change, the comfort and challenge of long-standing friendships, and the quiet, often unacknowledged transition from childhood to adulthood. The pumpkin patch itself acts as a vibrant, almost magical setting, a liminal space where old traditions meet new possibilities. It's a place of joy, nostalgia, and a touch of melancholy for what's about to end.
The plot itself is relatively simple and low stakes but this is precisely where Pumpkinheads finds its strength; it’s not about grand gestures or dramatic revelations, but about the small, significant moments that define a friendship on the brink of transformation. Whilst I understand that some readers might desire more in terms of plot complexity or character arcs, I belive that the story's charm lies in its focus on Deja and Josiah's final night together and their reminiscence.
Overall, I found Pumpkinheads to be a sweet, charming, and visually appealing graphic novel that will resonate with anyone who has experienced the bittersweet feeling of a beautiful chapter closing. It's a perfect autumnal read, celebrating friendship, the courage to embrace change, and the magic found in the everyday. I would highly recommend this for fans of slice-of-life stories, contemporary YA, and anyone looking for a dose of warmth and genuine emotion. With the current geopolitical chaos, something like this is good for the soul.
