Squanto’s Journey: The Story of the First Thanksgiving

By Joseph Bruchac and Illustrated by Greg Shed

Published by HMH Books for Young Readers

Joseph Bruchac has written a moving thanksgiving story about how Squanto, a Native American, who helped the passengers of the Mayflower survive after landing in the new world. He felt the newcomers and his tribe could be friends and live in peace. After a good harvest, Squanto’s tribe and the pilgrims celebrated with a feast which is now and American tradition.

 

Thank You, Sarah: The Woman Who Saved Thanksgiving

By Laurie Halse Anderson and Illustrated by Matt Faulkner

Published by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers

This tale of persistence has always impressed me.  For thirty-five years Sarah Hale petitioned for thanksgiving day to become a national holiday.  President Abraham Lincoln finally signed the Thanksgiving Proclamation in 1863 and Thanksgiving Day became a national holiday.

 

Balloons over Broadway: The True Story of the Puppeteer of Macy’s Parade

Written and illustrated by Melissa Sweet

Published by HMH Books for Young Readers

One of my favorite things to do on Thanksgiving morning is the watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on TV. In “Balloons over Broadway” Melissa Sweet tells the story of puppeteer Tony Sarg whose giant helium balloons became the trademark of the parade. Sweet’s charming mixed media collages brilliantly illustrate the story.

 

Happy Reading!

Tags: Greg Shed, Joseph Bruchac, Laurie Halse Anderson, Matt Faulkner, Melissa Sweet., Squanto