(FRENCH LICK, Ind.) – Dec. 12, 2025 – The 2026 Indiana Farm Bureau Book of the Year is “The Pie That Molly Grew” written by Sue Heavenrich with illustrations by Chamisa Kellogg. The book follows Molly as she goes on the journey of growing a pumpkin – from the planting of a single seed to harvest. The Book of the Year, which is selected annually, is a part of INFB’s Agriculture in the Classroom program, a grassroots, agricultural outreach initiative for schoolchildren in Indiana. The book was announced at the Indiana Ag Gathering at the French Lick Springs Resort.

“The Pie That Molly Grew,” which is published by Sleeping Bear Press, educates young readers about each stage of growth for the pumpkin -- from the seed to the sprout to the leaves to the final fruit on the vine. The book ends with Molly’s pumpkin turned into a delicious pie for all to share in a celebration of gratitude, showcasing what can be accomplished from one single seed that is sowed. At the back of the book, there are facts about pumpkins, the pollinators that help them grow and a pumpkin pie recipe.

INFB staff and professional educators selected this year’s book to bring awareness to the pumpkin-growing process that takes place here in the Hoosier state. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, Indiana ranks second in pumpkin production with 7,100 harvested acres of pumpkins as of the latest crop year.

For the tenth consecutive year, a statewide campaign led by the INFB Women’s Leadership Committee is underway to promote the Book of the Year throughout 2026 in every county. Ag in the Classroom volunteers will read the Book of the Year aloud to local classrooms and donate it for future use. INFB representatives also use this opportunity to facilitate hands-on, engaging lessons and activities that relate to the book and modern farming in Indiana. 

INFB’s Ag in the Classroom program released an educators’ guide for teachers wishing to incorporate the book into their class work during the Book of the Year Training & Ag in the Classroom Workshop held at the Indiana Ag Gathering. The book’s author, Sue Heavenrich, attended virtually to speak about gardening and composting, and how it inspired her to write the book. 

Anyone involved in education and interested in learning more about how INFB’s 2026 Book of the Year can be incorporated into curriculum or student programming can visit the Ag in the Classroom section of INFB’s website. 

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About Indiana Farm Bureau: For more than 100 years, Indiana Farm Bureau (INFB) has protected and enhanced the future of agriculture and our communities. As the state’s largest general farm organization, INFB works diligently to cultivate a thriving agricultural ecosystem to strengthen the viability of Indiana agriculture. Learn more at INFB.org.