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Lumpy's Gift
Children have always struggled with the obligations of school, chores, practices, and other family responsibilities. Lumpy’s Gift is a delightful fable about how all those little trials help make it possible to find your true potential. In this story, Lumpy, a lump of clay, is taken from his home by a well-meaning potter who does “terrible” things to Lumpy. But by the end, Lumpy has become something extraordinary, something he never knew he wanted to be. The book includes a parent and teacher’s discussion guide to the story and an introduction to the basics of pottery.
42 pages, Paperback
Published December 1, 2023
3 people want to read
About the author
Christopher Packard
2 books6 followers
wwww.christopherpackard.com
Christopher Packard is the author of Mythical Creatures of Maine and a full-time high school science teacher at Bangor High School. He is also a trail runner, swordfighter, storyteller, and outdoor adventurer. When not teaching, writing, or wandering in the wilds he can often be found on his small homestead in Hampden, Maine gardening, raising chickens, and spending time with his wife and two sons. Prior to taking up teaching and writing he worked as an ecological restoration technician, field biologist, naturalist, and outdoor educator. He has earned some pieces of paper that say things about degrees in biology and education. But most of his learning has come from his passion for discovery and his drive to bring people together.
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Christopher Packard is the author of Mythical Creatures of Maine and a full-time high school science teacher at Bangor High School. He is also a trail runner, swordfighter, storyteller, and outdoor adventurer. When not teaching, writing, or wandering in the wilds he can often be found on his small homestead in Hampden, Maine gardening, raising chickens, and spending time with his wife and two sons. Prior to taking up teaching and writing he worked as an ecological restoration technician, field biologist, naturalist, and outdoor educator. He has earned some pieces of paper that say things about degrees in biology and education. But most of his learning has come from his passion for discovery and his drive to bring people together.
Follow me on Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
January 27, 2024
A journey about change, and whether we dont mind change or we embrace it, it is apart of life. Like lumpy, I myself, am not the biggest supporter of change. But the author and illustrator reminded me that most of the time, change is a good thing.
I can see this book being on display in hundreds of thousands of art teachers classrooms and in our children’s bookshelves. Fabulously written with vivid beautiful color and expressive pop out words to keep kiddos engaged.
I can see this book being on display in hundreds of thousands of art teachers classrooms and in our children’s bookshelves. Fabulously written with vivid beautiful color and expressive pop out words to keep kiddos engaged.
January 6, 2024
What a lovely, warm and sweet story about the wettest, coldest and muddiest thing there is out there, clay. In this children’s book by Christopher Packard, illustrated by Jill Packard, you will meet Lumpy, the clay, that just wanted to live his life, in his muddy, wet house and enjoy his time, until one day he met a hard, cold fate that involved being heated.
Lumpy embarked in a journey of creativity and self-learning. But not just for him, as you will see once you start reading this very short and lovely book.
Lumpy’s Gift by Christopher & Jill Packard has a captivating story that is interestingly enhanced by the creativity with the words styles and the colours of the illustrations. The authors have put their hearts and souls into this book.
There is one thing that you will notice while you read and that you’ll enjoy, and it is how the word of a colour becomes that particular colour, words with a big action become a big text, and how positive words become bigger and exaggerated. This is something that I haven’t found in other children’s books so far. Quite original indeed.
What a beautiful work from the illustrator, Jill Packard. The images were vivid and bright, with clear scenes that match the words perfectly. They are easy enough to the eye that even the youngest little mind can grasp and understand.
Lumpy can be seen with the biggest of expressions, showing all his feelings. The illustrations bring the story to life, giving young readers the opportunity to identify with the emotions of Lumpy and the characters around him. They also create a sense of rhythm and flow, drawing the reader in and helping them to journey through the story.
Now you may be thinking this book is just for your child to read, but it’s not quite the case. At the end of this book there are instructions or advice for adults on how better to use the book with their child.
A section on how to find, prepare, make and mold raw clay from the nature around them. This is not a skill that is often taught in classes or schools much more as it’s easier and more convenient to buy ready-made clay from stores. But don’t take my word for it, get your copy and try it!
Lumpy’s Gift also has lots of helpful tips and tricks to get you on your way to becoming better at pottery with your young ones.
It’s fun and educational for all ages, and can even be taken beyond the book as it could become a full family activity to find, prepare, shape, and mold clay from nature. So this book is for the whole family, teachers in the classroom, anyone who holds a camp or outside event that involves nature, craft classes and finally for the people that want to find a new way to be creative with their hands, so grab your copy on Amazon. You wont regret it.
A fun and educational read that kids and adults alike will enjoy. It’s a great way to introduce young people to an important topic. Grab the book today and get ready for a squishy adventure.
Book score: 8.6/10
Lumpy embarked in a journey of creativity and self-learning. But not just for him, as you will see once you start reading this very short and lovely book.
Lumpy’s Gift by Christopher & Jill Packard has a captivating story that is interestingly enhanced by the creativity with the words styles and the colours of the illustrations. The authors have put their hearts and souls into this book.
There is one thing that you will notice while you read and that you’ll enjoy, and it is how the word of a colour becomes that particular colour, words with a big action become a big text, and how positive words become bigger and exaggerated. This is something that I haven’t found in other children’s books so far. Quite original indeed.
What a beautiful work from the illustrator, Jill Packard. The images were vivid and bright, with clear scenes that match the words perfectly. They are easy enough to the eye that even the youngest little mind can grasp and understand.
Lumpy can be seen with the biggest of expressions, showing all his feelings. The illustrations bring the story to life, giving young readers the opportunity to identify with the emotions of Lumpy and the characters around him. They also create a sense of rhythm and flow, drawing the reader in and helping them to journey through the story.
Now you may be thinking this book is just for your child to read, but it’s not quite the case. At the end of this book there are instructions or advice for adults on how better to use the book with their child.
A section on how to find, prepare, make and mold raw clay from the nature around them. This is not a skill that is often taught in classes or schools much more as it’s easier and more convenient to buy ready-made clay from stores. But don’t take my word for it, get your copy and try it!
Lumpy’s Gift also has lots of helpful tips and tricks to get you on your way to becoming better at pottery with your young ones.
It’s fun and educational for all ages, and can even be taken beyond the book as it could become a full family activity to find, prepare, shape, and mold clay from nature. So this book is for the whole family, teachers in the classroom, anyone who holds a camp or outside event that involves nature, craft classes and finally for the people that want to find a new way to be creative with their hands, so grab your copy on Amazon. You wont regret it.
A fun and educational read that kids and adults alike will enjoy. It’s a great way to introduce young people to an important topic. Grab the book today and get ready for a squishy adventure.
Book score: 8.6/10
January 16, 2024
My Ratings - 4.6/5
"Lumpy's Gift" by Christopher Packard is a delightful fable that weaves a heartwarming tale about embracing life's challenges and discovering one's true potential. The story revolves around Lumpy, a lump of clay, taken from his home by a well-intentioned potter who subjects him to seemingly "terrible" transformations. As the narrative unfolds, readers follow Lumpy's journey of self-discovery, ultimately leading to an extraordinary transformation that he never imagined.
Packard skillfully addresses the common struggles that children face with school, chores, and family responsibilities through the whimsical character of Lumpy. The fable serves as a metaphor for the growth and self-realization that can emerge from facing life's trials and tribulations.
One of the book's highlights is its inclusion of a parent and teacher's discussion guide, providing an interactive element that encourages conversations about the story's themes. Additionally, the introduction to the basics of pottery adds an educational dimension, enriching the reader's experience with a touch of practical knowledge.
The narrative is complemented by engaging illustrations that bring Lumpy's world to life, enhancing the overall appeal for young readers. "Lumpy's Gift" not only entertains but also imparts valuable lessons about resilience, personal growth, and the potential for positive transformation that can arise from facing challenges.
Christopher Packard has crafted a charming and thought-provoking story that is not only enjoyable for children but also offers a meaningful exploration of life's journey. "Lumpy's Gift" is a wonderful addition to children's literature, promoting important values and sparking conversations about the beauty of self-discovery.
"Lumpy's Gift" by Christopher Packard is a delightful fable that weaves a heartwarming tale about embracing life's challenges and discovering one's true potential. The story revolves around Lumpy, a lump of clay, taken from his home by a well-intentioned potter who subjects him to seemingly "terrible" transformations. As the narrative unfolds, readers follow Lumpy's journey of self-discovery, ultimately leading to an extraordinary transformation that he never imagined.
Packard skillfully addresses the common struggles that children face with school, chores, and family responsibilities through the whimsical character of Lumpy. The fable serves as a metaphor for the growth and self-realization that can emerge from facing life's trials and tribulations.
One of the book's highlights is its inclusion of a parent and teacher's discussion guide, providing an interactive element that encourages conversations about the story's themes. Additionally, the introduction to the basics of pottery adds an educational dimension, enriching the reader's experience with a touch of practical knowledge.
The narrative is complemented by engaging illustrations that bring Lumpy's world to life, enhancing the overall appeal for young readers. "Lumpy's Gift" not only entertains but also imparts valuable lessons about resilience, personal growth, and the potential for positive transformation that can arise from facing challenges.
Christopher Packard has crafted a charming and thought-provoking story that is not only enjoyable for children but also offers a meaningful exploration of life's journey. "Lumpy's Gift" is a wonderful addition to children's literature, promoting important values and sparking conversations about the beauty of self-discovery.
October 31, 2023
The Review
This was a truly imaginative and creative take on the children’s book narrative. The author and illustrator both worked together to create a stunning narrative of a lump of clay that finds itself undergoing a personal transformation and becoming uprooted from the comfort of the life they knew. The warmth of the illustration colors and the atmosphere that they created made the story feel captivating.
The heart of the narrative rests in the unique character development of Lumpy and the insightful lessons that the book brought to life. Lessons such as challenging ourselves to do things outside of our comfort zone to better our own lives, and how offering our best selves to others can be the most true and powerful form of a gift a person can give, all made this story shine greatly.
The Verdict
Memorable, heartfelt, and entertaining, author Christopher Packard’s “Lumpy’s Gift” is a wonderful children’s book and greatly illustrated by Jill Packard. The care and heart that went into the creation of this book and the powerful themes that drove this narrative home will bring parents and children alike home this holiday season.
This was a truly imaginative and creative take on the children’s book narrative. The author and illustrator both worked together to create a stunning narrative of a lump of clay that finds itself undergoing a personal transformation and becoming uprooted from the comfort of the life they knew. The warmth of the illustration colors and the atmosphere that they created made the story feel captivating.
The heart of the narrative rests in the unique character development of Lumpy and the insightful lessons that the book brought to life. Lessons such as challenging ourselves to do things outside of our comfort zone to better our own lives, and how offering our best selves to others can be the most true and powerful form of a gift a person can give, all made this story shine greatly.
The Verdict
Memorable, heartfelt, and entertaining, author Christopher Packard’s “Lumpy’s Gift” is a wonderful children’s book and greatly illustrated by Jill Packard. The care and heart that went into the creation of this book and the powerful themes that drove this narrative home will bring parents and children alike home this holiday season.
November 14, 2023
Lumpy's Gift by Christopher Packard is a wonderful children's book about pottery. It gave the main character, Lumpy, the clay new life. Lumpy is a type of clay that potters dig from the ground to use for pottery. Lumpy's story follows the steps of what happens when a potter finds the clay to shaping it, to forming it, to painting, to baking it. By the end of the journey, Lumpy felt great and renewed with a higher self-esteem. He was not sure where he was going or why the potter was doing what he did until the very end. Lumpy was happy in the end as beautiful, strong cup. I think children will laugh along and enjoy following the steps to creating pottery.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
January 29, 2024
A wonderful little children's book. Great story about dealing with things we don't know about, and how experiences that may scare us can shape us into something more. It is about how a small lump of clay becomes a beautiful gift. The illustrations are beautiful, the writing simple for children, but also fun, with graphics of "noises" sprinkled in.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews