Squashed

Aah! Dude! It moved! I told you not to touch it!

Can the mysterious shuddering pumpkin the three kids found in the forest be alive? They’re going to find out when they lift it from its resting place and carry it home. But what happens if someone—or something—comes looking for it?

This evocative graphic novel is spooky yet ultimately gentle and charming. It presents a tale of unfounded fear of those who are different and the similarities we all share. Told in richly stylized full-color artwork from illustrator Meaghan Tosi whose previous work Kirkus Reviews praised as "delightful."

Buy Directly from Illustrator

Origins of Squashed

In the autumn of 2003, Thomas Tosi purchased a new camera and wanted to have some fun with it. He decided to make a movie. It was a home movie of sorts with his wife, two kids, and one of their friends helping out. Almost twenty years later that short film became the basis for this graphic novel by his daughter, Meaghan.

Editorial Reviews

"[Squashed] translates beautifully to paneled storytelling; the illustrations capture the pacing perfectly, creating consistent suspense. The limited text requires readers to follow the art to understand the story, but Meaghan's clear, straightforward panel work flows cleanly across the pages. The simple vocabulary and brief dialogue exchanges make it accessible in a way that denser comics aren't, making it a good selection for reluctant readers who like eerie adventures."
—Kirkus Reviews

"Told through comic-book panel illustrations in Meaghan Tosi's wonderfully evocative artwork, Squashed is a story about fear and difference but also empathy, shared desires, and common interests."
—The Children's Book Review

"Like autumn itself, it provides warmth and entertainment, but still has a darker side that can give chills...it simply brings you along on the character's amazing experience: fascination with a magical pumpkin, terror of the unknown, and a heart-warming conclusion."
—Manchester Ink Link

"it's a book kids can discuss in a book club, classroom discussion group, and leaves the reader with something to think about"
—Life is what it's called

"snuggle in, and get ready to embark on a story perfect for the reading season"
—Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers

"Perfect for fall, Squashed is filled with autumn colors and a spooky undercurrent. It is not merely for the roller coaster or the autumnal vibes that one would read this, however. Upon closer examination, Squashed showcases the strength of a sibling bond and the value of looking beyond appearances."
—Glass of Wine, Glass of Milk

"Children who enjoy a scary story will love this book!"
—Lisa's Reading: Family Book Reviews