Book Review #97

 

The Story of the Pilgrims

Author: Katharine Ross

Illustrator: Carolyn Croll

Publisher: Scholastic, Inc.,1995

ISBN: 0-590-44279-5

Reading Level: Recommended for ages 4-8

Main Character: The main characters in this book are the Pilgrims who embarked on the Mayflower voyage in search of religious freedom and the Wampanoag Native Americans who played a significant role in their survival.

Plot: The Story of the Pilgrims follows the historical journey of the Pilgrims from their persecution in England to their challenging voyage on the Mayflower and the establishment of the Plymouth Colony in America. The book also recounts the first Thanksgiving celebration and the cooperation between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag.

Settings: The story is primarily set in 17th-century England, aboard the Mayflower during its voyage to America, and in Plymouth, Massachusetts, where the Pilgrims established their colony.

Genre/Theme/Style: Children's Non-Fiction, Children’s Historical Non-Fiction, Thanksgiving Holiday.

I Gave This Book 5 Roars! 🦁🦁🦁🦁🦁

Why 5 Roars? I gave this book 5 Roars because it provides young readers with an informative and engaging introduction to the history of the Pilgrims and the origins of Thanksgiving. The combination of historical facts and colorful illustrations makes it an excellent resource for teaching children about the early interactions between European settlers and Native Americans. It also conveys important values of courage, resilience, cooperation, and gratitude. 

This is an older book that does not use the word Native Americans. However, it would be a great idea to talk to kids about how cultural awareness can bring us closer together.  

Critical Analysis: "The Story of the Pilgrims" effectively captures the attention of young readers and helps them understand the historical context of Thanksgiving. The illustrations by Carolyn Croll complement the narrative beautifully, making history come alive. The book strikes a balance between education and entertainment, making it a valuable addition to children's literature. It is an engaging story with detailed illustrations.

Connections: This book can be a valuable resource for educators and parents who want to teach children about American history and the Thanksgiving holiday. It can be used in the classroom or at home to discuss the importance of understanding different cultures and the role of cooperation and gratitude in the early history of the United States.