Thanksgiving Reading

“The First Thanksgiving at Plymouth” (1914) By Jennie A. Brownscombe

Thanksgiving is my absolute favorite holiday! I love the history and traditions behind it. And since I’m a homeschool mom as well, I like to have a list of favorite books handy to read each year. So, here are my top picks:

Of Plymouth Plantation by William Bradford
There’s no better way to study history than with the writings of those who were actually making history! This is the story of the pilgrims written by a pilgrim. Absolutely worth reading!

A Thanksgiving Primer
This is a book filled with recipes and traditions straight from the pilgrims. You could really re-create the first Thanksgiving with this book. There are also some nice photographs. We haven’t ever re-created the first Thanksgiving exactly, but we enjoy reading this as a history book.

Pocahontas by Ingri & Edgar Parin d’Aulaire
Skip over the Disney version and read a reall book about Pocahontas and her role with the pilgrims!

Squanto and the Miracle of Thanksgiving by Eric Mentaxas
Great retelling of the important role that Squanto played in the survival of the Pilgrims.

Sarah Morton’s Day and Samuel Eaton’s Day
Using photographs from Plimouth Plantation, these books show how Pilgrim children lived. Fun for kids!

Thanksgiving on Thursday (Magic Tree House)
My kids like Magic Tree House books, and they all deal with a point in history. There is also a companion study guide for this one.

Focus on the Family Radio Theatre presents The Legend of Squanto
This is a 2-part dramatized retelling of the story of Squanto. It’s free to listen at the above link. You can also order your own copy here. iTunes also has it for download for only $5.99 (just search for The Legend of Squanto).

Curl up with your family (or all by yourself!) and read some interesting stories of the original founding fathers! You will be amazed at their faith and perseverance as they kept their eyes on the vision God had laid out for them.