Classroom Connections

Science

Use Life on a Vine to introduce or reinforce:

Plant life cycles
Seeds and germination
Roots, vines, blossoms, and fruit
Pollination and the role of bees
Seasonal change
Pumpkin growth and harvest

Language Arts

The book offers opportunities to study:

Personification
Alliteration
Onomatopoeia
Similes
Sensory details
Narrator’s point of view
Descriptive language
Story sequence and pacing

Social-Emotional Themes

The story can also support conversations about:

Growth and change
Patience
Belonging
Purpose
Nature vs. nurture
The people, places, and experiences that help shape who we become

For Elementary Classrooms

Read before or after a pumpkin patch field trip. Pair with a pumpkin observation journal, seed-planting activity, or seasonal writing prompt.

For Science Classes

Use the book as a narrative introduction to plant growth, pollination, and life cycles. Students can compare the story’s poetic language with factual science vocabulary.

For Middle-Level Language Arts

Study the text as an accessible model of literary devices. Students can identify examples of personification, sound words, similes, and imagery, then write their own short piece from the perspective of a natural object.

For Libraries

Feature the book in fall story time, pumpkin-themed programming, harvest displays, or family literacy nights. Add a pumpkin craft, seed exploration, or “write your own object story” activity.

Program & Visit Information

Mrs. Hanson is available for:

Book readings
Classroom visits
Library group activities
Pumpkin-themed story programs
Seasonal literacy events
Author Q&A sessions

With 34 years of teaching experience, Mrs. Hanson brings both warmth and classroom awareness to her visits. Her programs can be adapted for young children, elementary classrooms, middle-level students, and library audiences.

Bring Mrs. Hanson and Life on a Vine to your classroom, library, or fall reading event.

Schedule a Visit
Request Classroom Resources
Contact Kari