The Best Thanksgiving Ever!
What’s inside...
A sweet story about the importance of family, being thankful, and love--as told by a family of turkeys, with a hilarious surprise at the end! The narrative follows a family gathering to celebrate Thanksgiving with hugs, kisses, and well-wishes. However, there is an unexpected twist when the Turkey clan, who are the main characters, ponders what to eat for their feast. In the end, all the turkeys are thankful for a meal of Thanksgiving corn. This funny, rhyming read-aloud story with illustrations by Ethan Long provides a humorous twist on a traditional holiday.
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of the Thanksgiving celebration in the book?
How do you think the turkey felt during the story, and why?
What are some ways we can show we are thankful, just like the characters did?
If you could add another character to the story, who would it be and what would they do?
How does our own Thanksgiving celebration compare to the one in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they know about Thanksgiving and what it means to them.
Pause at key moments in the story to ask your child to predict what might happen next and why.
Encourage your child to relate the events of the story to their own experiences of Thanksgiving or similar family gatherings.
After reading, have your child draw a picture of their ideal Thanksgiving celebration inspired by the story.
Use the story as a springboard to discuss the importance of gratitude and how we can express it in daily life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Gratitude and Appreciation
Explanation: In 'The Best Thanksgiving Ever!', the characters express gratitude for the food and company, illustrating the importance of being thankful for what one has.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by expressing thanks for meals, time spent with family, and other daily blessings to foster an attitude of gratitude.
Example Lesson: Family Togetherness
Explanation: The story showcases the joy of family gatherings during Thanksgiving, emphasizing the warmth and love shared among family members.
Real-World Application: Kids can encourage and participate in family activities, understanding the value of spending quality time with loved ones.
Example Lesson: Sharing and Generosity
Explanation: Characters in the book share food and responsibilities, teaching children the importance of sharing and being generous with others.
Real-World Application: Children can practice sharing toys, snacks, or time with siblings and friends to build generous and cooperative habits.
Example Lesson: Tradition and Cultural Appreciation
Explanation: The story highlights traditional Thanksgiving activities and meals, helping children appreciate and understand cultural practices.
Real-World Application: Kids can engage in learning about different cultural traditions and participate in cultural activities to broaden their horizons and respect for diversity.
Example Lesson: Joy in Simple Pleasures
Explanation: The book conveys happiness derived from simple pleasures like eating a good meal and being with family, underscoring the beauty of simple joys.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to find joy in everyday simplicity, like playing outside or enjoying a family meal, appreciating the moments that make life special.