Thankful Thanksgiving

PreS-K--A jaunty and pleasant board book about the many ways that families celebrate Thanksgiving. The story is narrated by a young mouse in a creative XAXA rhyme pattern. Each spread features things to be thankful for: family, friends, laughter, music, food, blessings, fun, memories, and more. The well-balanced compositions feature smiling mouse parents, grandparents, children, and friends who sing, dance, cook, pray, and play. Digital cartoon illustrations are rendered in a rich fall palette of pumpkin orange, squash yellows, cranberry reds, olive greens, gingerbread browns, and eggplant purples. Readers who look closely will see a detailed and darling mouse-eye view of a matchstick rug, pocket watch clock, thimble stool, and button chairs. Caregivers and teachers should be prepared to explain that the beliefs and traditions of some families differ from others. Nevertheless, the engaging activities will keep preschoolers squeaking with delight. VERDICT A good choice for collections where more Thanksgiving books are needed to help little ones practice an attitude of gratitude on Thanksgiving and every day.--Rita Christensen