I love a good holiday book designed to be read aloud and shared with friends, children, and family—one that can be passed down for generations. Thanksgiving in the Woods is such a book.

Written by Phillis Alsdurf and Illustrated by Jenny Lovlie, Thanksgiving in the Woods is charming picture book in storyline and visual appeal, with a strong emotional quality.

The illustrations seem to jump off the page, the artist’s talent shining through with a lovely seasonal color palette and with the iridescent lights, an almost three-dimensional quality. Since it’s secular, I imagine it would make a great storytime to read aloud right before Thanksgiving break.

Even cooler is an actual annual event, which is the inspiration for this book. For over twenty years, a family has hosted over 200 friends and family for Thanksgiving in the upper New York state woodlands. This book shares a fictional version of children and families preparing for a similar event. From the feast to the bonfire, singing, and dancing, this sounds like a holiday celebration everyone would want an invitation to.

If you’re looking for a great holiday gift to give over the fall break, this is a perfect pick!

Book and Image Courtesy of Beaming Books