One Potato, Two Potato: A Story about Luck and Life

Author: Cynthia DeFelice
Illustrator: Andrea U'Ren

Mr and Mrs O’Grady shared everything: one blanket, one potato, one chair. They had just enough for everyday to go by, but not enough for a lavish and truly enjoyable lifestyle. Living in their little cottage house, the old married couple were quite distanced from the rest of the world. Despite having each other, the two both secretly longed for a friend. 

Until one day, they found a pot. Everything that went into this pot came out as two: two potatoes, two everything- and suddenly they could afford a lot more. They doubled their potatoes, their coins, their blankets… before they knew it they could have a feast.

One day, the old married couple fell into the pot, and surely enough out came double.

Initially, it was a bit of a shock, but soon enough the four Mr and Mrs O’Gradys became fast fast friends: with the two women chattering about fashion and children and all the things they enjoyed, and the two men spending hours upon the field grounds outside. As all fairy tales end, the four buried the pot, deciding that it had played enough of a role in their lives and lived happily ever after. Although the old married couple could have exploited the pot to get everything in their wildest dreams- they did not.

Lighthearted and fun, this children’s book by Cynthia DeFelice, teaches the story of how we should know when enough is enough and not to be overly selfish in our desires. With slightly more complex vocabulary and description in full sentences, partnered with enthralling illustrations, this story is perfect for children aged 4-7. Sometimes, life will give us gifts. However, it is our responsibility to be grateful and cherish these gifts, not misusing them.

English review written by Vania Chow.
Vania is a vibrant and passionate student who is interested in many global affairs- human rights, food insecurity, politics. She thoroughly enjoys reading and writing about these issues as she believes that words and education are one of the best ways to make an impact. Outside of school, she is an active member of her community and loves spending times outdoors with her family and friends. With these values in mind, she hopes that the book reviews she has written will empower children today to love reading.