A Cozy Read During Harvest Season: The Pilgrims and the First Thanksgiving Review
As the crisp autumn air begins to brush against our windows and the leaves whirl about in a radiant dance, our evening routine shifts from summer silliness to cozy fall traditions. One night, while tucking my little ones into bed, the chitchat took a curious turn towards the First Thanksgiving. It felt like the perfect moment to introduce them to The Pilgrims and the First Thanksgiving from the Graphic History series by Capstone Press. It was just what we needed—a quiet moment to share cuddles and stories while delving into a slice of history that sometimes gets lost amid the pumpkin spice chaos.
The book, presented in engaging graphic novel format, takes readers through the Pilgrims’ first harrowing year in America, leading up to their very first harvest festival. It portrays not just the struggles and sacrifices faced by the Pilgrims, but it also sheds light on the critical role Native Americans played during that time. The balance of hardships and hope draws a line between past and present, provoking thoughtful discussions that I cherish during our reading time.
What struck me most was my kids’ eyes wide with intrigue as we explored the rich illustrations—Peter McDonnell’s art captured both the somber and joyful moments beautifully. Their giggles erupted when they saw scenes of the feasting with piles of colorful food, and they were genuinely surprised when I shared facts not commonly mentioned, like how the Pilgrims’ first Thanksgiving lasted three whole days and even included axe-throwing contests! What a far cry from our own celebrations where “feast” often means a well-ordered dinner table!
As we read, my older daughter suddenly pointed at a page and exclaimed, “Look, Mom! They’re wearing those funny hats!” A small but delightful moment that reminded me of our love for whimsical costumes during Halloween! It sparked questions about how clothing has changed over the years, and why the Pilgrims dressed that way. Did I expect a bedtime story to evoke such curiosity? Not at all!
This graphic novel holds a unique appeal—its lively illustrations and easy-to-follow prose allowed us to explore complex themes of friendship, survival, and cultural exchange in such an accessible way. Not only did it capture my children’s attention, but it also stirred sweet conversations about gratitude and kindness—perfect for this time of year.
I would highly recommend The Pilgrims and the First Thanksgiving for elementary-aged kids (about 8 to 14 years old), especially those who find joy in comics or animated stories. If you have children who are naturally curious or love discussing history, this book is a wonderful fit. It’s not just a one-time read; it’s a gentle reminder to delve into our past as we prepare for family gatherings filled with warmth and togetherness.
Reflecting on it personally, this book touched my heart because it inspired moments of connection among my family, reminding us to appreciate our roots. Here’s to all the parenting adventures that await during reading time—one page at a time! 🦃📚✨
