“Finally, the spinning and scraping stopped.
And Lumpy was placed high upon a shelf. He didn’t feel very lumpy anymore. Now he had a shape, sides, a top and a bottom. He even had an inside and an outside.
The days passed and Lumpy began to dry.
He felt a bit crusty but soon he started to feel stronger than ever.”
Lumpy’s Gift
Christopher Packard and Jill Packard
e-book 978-1-961905-00-9 | print 978-1-961905-00-9
December 2023 | 32 pages | Amazon e-book pro-order
Lumpy is a lump of clay and is about to be taken on the adventure of a lifetime! At first, he is scared when he is taken from his home by a well-meaning potter who does “terrible” things to him. But by the end, Lumpy has become something extraordinary, something he never knew he wanted to be. This delightful tale will help children learn not only about clay and pottery but also about how all those little things people make us do (like school, exercise, and eating right) help make it possible to find our true potential.
“Memorable, heartfelt, and entertaining…
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.”
—Anthony Avina, Author Anthony Avina’s Blog
“Lumpy’s Gift not only shows us Lumpy’s journey from clay to gift but also tells us the story of how he came to accept the changes he experienced with joy and purpose! As an art teacher, I know students will engage with Lumpy as a character, while they will learn about the science and fun of working with clay!”
—Rachel Case, elementary art teacher
“I love this so much! As an artist, art teacher, parent, and human being, the creative process is what life is all about! The lessons of resilience and growth shine through this delightful story with its charming images and timeless message. You and your kids will love it over and over again!”—Diane D’Amour, art teacher
“Lumpy’s Gift investigates how difficult things can transform us, strengthen us, and help our true nature shine. Lumpy teaches us that leaving our cozy, protected space can be challenging and sometimes downright confusing. But with courage and hope, we may come out the other side a better version of ourselves. As a ceramics teacher, I look forward to sharing this book with students of all ages—it is a great example of the pottery process and metaphor for life. The expressive illustrations, cadence, and onomatopoeia will enthrall readers! Bravo!”
—Eva Wagner, high school art and ceramics teacher
“Lumpy’s Gift not only shows us Lumpy’s journey from clay to gift but also tells us the story of how he came to accept the changes he experienced with joy and purpose! As an art teacher, I know students will engage with Lumpy as a character, while they will learn about the science and fun of working with clay!”
—Rachel Case, elementary art teacher