A Halloween treat, with a literary twist
Top prize for best pumpkin
Scribner Library has launched a literary Great Pumpkin Challenge. Votes from the Skidmore community are being sought for the decorated pumpkin that exhibits the best literary theme.
The brainchild of Johanna MacKay, instructional design librarian, the contest had one rule: the final product must relate to a book. Seven teams composed of librarians, staff, and student workers accepted the challenge and were provided with pumpkins.
To MacKay’s surprise, “There are no Harry Potter designs among the finalists.” There is a Lord of the Rings-inspired entry and a design based on The Wizard of Oz. Marvel’s Civil War comic, Vincent van Gogh and Grimm’s Fairy Tales also served as inspiration.
MacKay said that there were no restrictions on design. One entry is a carved gourd; others are decorated with paint, photographs or paper. But she did note that if any entries become malodorous, they will be removed from the display and replaced with a photograph.
All seven entries are on display at the library’s reference desk, and votes can be cast through the morning of Friday, Oct. 30. The winning team will receive a skeleton trophy and bragging rights until next year, according to MacKay. Also, in the spirit of holiday generosity, one ballot will be selected in a drawing for a Halloween gift basket featuring The Best of Poe and a selection of candy bars.
Don’t forget: cast your vote (and your chance to win the gift basket) in the Great Pumpkin Challenge at the library.
