Squanto's Journey

Reach for this book when you want to introduce your child to the true, nuanced history of Thanksgiving through a lens of personal resilience and cross-cultural empathy. While many holiday stories focus on the arrival of the Mayflower, this narrative prioritizes the perspective of Tisquantum, a man who survived capture, slavery, and the loss of his entire village only to choose a path of peace and cooperation. It is a powerful tool for navigating themes of profound grief and the strength it takes to help others despite experiencing great personal injustice. Written by a Native American author, the book provides an essential perspective for elementary aged children, grounding a legendary figure in human emotion and historical reality. Parents will appreciate the lyrical prose and beautiful illustrations that soften the weight of the historical tragedies described. It is an ideal choice for families looking to move beyond myths toward a more authentic, respectful understanding of Indigenous history and the complex roots of American holidays.