Thanksgiving Is a Blessing

PreS-Gr 1–Written in simple rhyming couplets with “Thanksgiving is” as the refrain, this title highlights some of the best traditions and emotions that the holiday has to offer. Beginning at sunrise and ending at sunset, it follows members of a community as they engage in various parts of the celebration, whether it’s gathering food for a food bank, running a race, remembering loved ones who passed away, cooking cherished recipes, or coming together for a communal dinner in the park. Though lacking in any historical perspective, the book shows that Thanksgiving is not just about the food, but about offering kindness, forgiveness, help, and gratitude. The warmth and diversity of Lugo’s somewhat cartoonish stylized illustrations perfectly complement the gentle simple text. Back matter provides directions for a placemat craft and a recipe for pumpkin soup.