Late again! This is beginning to be the default story of my life. Today, I want to review two kid’s books, just in time for Thanksgiving.

Today is Thanksgiving, written by P.K. Hallinan, deals with Thanksgiving Day from the morning preparations through the last guest departing under the harvest moon. All, however, is told from the kids’ point of view and features the Rainbow Kids (Hallinan’s creation). Just as engaging as the Peanuts crew, the Rainbow kids tell their story in rhyme. Parents and kids alike will enjoy this read-aloud which shows the kids playing football on the front lawn, gratefully gathering around the Thanksgiving table, and all the American traditions observed on Thanksgiving Day.

Over the River: A Turkey’s Tale  by Derek Anderson is loosely based on the song “Over the River and Through the Woods…” by Lydia Maria Child, and is delightfully cartooned, telling the story of a family of turkeys setting out to see Grandma. On the way they encounter a hunter and his ferocious dog, who are anticipating a big, fat turkey for their Thanksgiving table. The hilarious way the turkeys outsmart the dog, who is hot on their trail, leads to a satisfactory and laughable ending for all. The drawings are priceless, and the story is told through the cartoons.

Either or both of these are the perfect reads for parents and kids or grandparents and grandkids on Thanksgiving Day.