Sophie's Squash by Pat Zietlow Miller

Sophie's Squash is probably my favorite fall book of 2013. It is fresh, original, and right up Ivy's alley. Young Sophie falls in love with a squash at the local farmer's market. She takes Bernice with her everywhere - on errands, to school, to visit other squash, and even to bed. Despite her mother's warnings that Bernice will rot, Sophie continues to bring Bernice with her. When others start to complain, Bernice is forced to listen to the advice of a squash farmer. Bernice is covered with the snow while she is restoring herself in dirt. Will she survive the winter? Find out in this heartwarming tale of a girl and her squash.

P.S. Ivy is getting a squash this weekend.