The tensions, joys and blow-ups of a newly-blended family

The Pumpkin Seed, published by Nosy Crow at £12.99 on September 10, is the latest book from best-selling, award-winning children’s author Poppy O’Neill who lives in Bognor Regis.

Poppy, aged 40, said: “The Pumpkin Seed follows a little girl as her mum’s new partner moves into their home. It follows the ups and downs, tensions, joys and blow-ups of a newly-blended family, from the child’s perspective. It’s not always smooth sailing when someone new joins a family.

“With patience and resilience, the little girl and her new ‘bonus mum’ get to know one another and form a unique bond, all while growing a pumpkin plant and composting their leftovers.

“While over a million British children live in step- and blended families, there are precious few picture books focused on the experience of starting and living in a blended family. So I’m really thrilled to be able to publish a book that shows one way children can experience this often difficult experience.

“The story is very loosely based on my own experiences introducing my now wife to my children. She moved in during lockdown, and I found it fascinating and beautiful to watch relationships forming organically between her and my children.

“The book is aimed at ages two to five and their parents. While it might primarily appeal to parents in blended families, or those preparing to introduce a new partner to their children, I think the story will appeal to any child who’s ever felt frustrated or irritated by the adults in their lives – and any parent who wants to show their child how healthy relationships are built: slowly and imperfectly.

Poppy is the best-selling, award-winning children’s author of more than 25 books.

“My monster mental health series, including Don’t Worry, Be Happy and You’re a Star, features 15 fun and engaging books dedicated to all aspects of mental health for seven-11 year olds. The Extraordinary Book That Makes You Feel Happy won the Week Junior Book of the Year, Younger Non-fiction, in 2023.

“I have been writing stories since I was a little girl and started writing professionally in 2017. I’ve always loved writing in all its forms, and it’s always been a dream to be an author.”