A Thanksgiving Treasure: Review of Thanksgiving Is Here!
As the leaves turn golden and the air fills with the scent of pumpkin spice, our home transforms into a mini bustling Thanksgiving hub. Last week, amidst the typical bedtime chaos (two little ones refusing to settle down), I spotted Thanksgiving Is Here! by Rebecca Bond tucked away on our bookshelf. A cozy story seemed like the perfect way to capture a moment of peace before lights out. With my five-year-old snuggled under one arm and my three-year-old clutching a plush turkey, we dove into this delightful picture book.
Thanksgiving Is Here! invites readers into the heart of a Thanksgiving celebration at Grandma and Grandpa’s house. The moment the turkey goes into the oven, the joyous chaos begins—imagine squealing cousins, adorable babies, and curious dogs, all amidst the aromatic wafts of delicious food. My kids giggled at the “yackety-yacking” of the relatives, which reminded them of our own noisy family gatherings, where voices meld into one big, beautiful symphony.
The vibrant illustrations are a true standout. Each page is packed with lively characters and heartwarming details that sparked my kids’ imaginations. They especially loved spotting a mischievous dog stealing food and the endless stream of guests arriving one by one. My daughter honed in on the Grandma with her glasses sliding down her nose and said, “She looks just like Grandma!” It was that relatable touch that made our reading time feel intimate and warm.
The writing style flows beautifully, making it a breeze to read aloud. The rhythmic repetition kept my youngest engaged, while the older one eagerly followed different characters through the illustrations. It opened up a fun conversation about our Thanksgiving traditions and what they’re most excited about—my daughter couldn’t stop talking about which dishes she’d like to help prep and which guests she hopes would bring dessert!
A highlight was the page where the family sits down for dinner, surrounded by the love and laughter that fills the room. My daughter’s eyes lit up, and she exclaimed, “That’s what we do! Family means food and fun!” Her excitement reflected the book’s spirit—it’s about more than just the meal; it’s about togetherness.
I wholeheartedly recommend Thanksgiving Is Here! to families with young children ages 4 to 8, especially during that cozy, pre-Thanksgiving time. If you have little ones who thrive on the energy and chaos of family gatherings, this book is a resonant choice. This isn’t a one-and-done read; it’s already become a new family favorite that we’ll pull off the shelf each fall. The magic lies in its simplicity and the celebration of togetherness in familiar, loving chaos.
In a busy world where we often rush through the days, it’s beautifully grounding to pause and relish these small moments—thank you, Rebecca Bond, for bringing a piece of our family life into the pages of this book!
