Squanto's Journey: The Story of the First Thanksgiving by Joseph Bruchac

 

Title: Squanto's Journey

Genre: Historical Fiction

Author: Joseph Bruchac

Illustrator: Greg Shed

Major awards: N/A

Age group: K-5th

Summary: 

This is an interesting book on American History. It is told from the perspective of a Native-American. Squanto, a tribe member, describes his experiences encountering the Europeans. The book discusses colonization, enslavement, and peace. At the end of the book, the colonizers and Native-Americans make peace, and celebrate with a Thanksgiving feast.

Why would I use this book in the classroom: 

As a future educator, I'd use this book in my classroom to teach students about the history of America. It's neat that the book is told from a Native-American's point of view. It is important that we show honor for those who were here long before colonization. I'd also use this book to teach students about the origin of Thanksgiving.

Appropriate grade level:

I think an appropriate grade level for this book is K-5th. The book has a lot of text, but the illustrations speak for themselves. I'd read this story to teach students about Thanksgiving. However, I'd also use it to teach upper level elementary students on the events in American history.

Ideas for unit of study to include the book in and how you might use the book in the classroom:

• Language Arts/Theater Arts: I would use this book as a focus event for a Thanksgiving activity. I'd have students read scripts, and act out a play.