Terrific Turkey Tales

It's time to talk turkey. Thanksgiving turkey, that is. Here are a few of my favorite picture books starring our feathery friend. :)

Turk and Runt: A Thanksgiving Comedy

Turk's parents are proud of him.  He's the biggest, strongest, most graceful bird at Wishbone Farm. "He's a dancer," says his mother. "He's an athlete," says his father. "He's a goner," says his little brother, Runt. But no one ever listens to Runt.  Will Runt keep his family safe this holiday season?

Run, Turkey, Run!

Thanksgiving is quickly approaching.  The farmer is searching for a plump bird for his feast.  Turkey must find a place to hide.  If he can't outsmart the farmer, there’s only one thing left to do, outrun him.  Run, Turkey, run!

A Plump and Perky Turkey

It's Thanksgiving time in a small town, but all the turkeys have skipped town.  The townspeople need turkey for their feast.  They devise a clever plan lure an unsuspecting turkey to town. Peter takes the bait, but will he fall for their trap?

Turkey Trouble

Turkey is in trouble, BIG trouble.  It's almost thanksgiving, and he's the main course.  After many hilarious attempts to conceal his identity, Turkey comes up with the perfect disguise. 

Speaking of disguises, aren't these little turkeys the cutest?

Need more Thanksgiving book suggestions? Click {here}.

Blog Hop Announcement!  

Please join me Friday for the Gift of Reading Blog Hop. Several literacy teachers have joined together to offer you freebies and a chance to win one of three Teachers Pay Teachers gift cards.  

Thanksgiving Read-Alouds and a Turkey Dinner

Are you wondering what to read this week?  Here are a few of my favorite Thanksgiving read-alouds.

Thanksgiving on Thursday by Mary Pope Osborne  (73 pages)

This is a short chapter book with a great message.  In the story, Jack and Annie take a trip back to the first Thanksgiving Day.  They are asked to pitch in and help prepare for the big meal.  Despite the many obstacles they encounter, Jack and Annie learn what it means to be truly thankful.

Thanksgiving at the Tappletons by Eileen Spinelli (32 pages)

This book is hilarious and heart-warming...Kids love it!  The entire Tappleton family prepares a Thanksgiving feast for their relatives.  However, nothing turns out as expected.  Grandmother reminds everyone that there's more to Thanksgiving than a turkey and trimmings.

Sarah Morton's Day: A Day in the Life of a Pilgrim Girl 

Samuel Eaton's Day: A Day in the Life of a Pilgrim Boy 

by Kate Waters (32 pages each)

These books are authentic, informative accounts of the challenges and pride felt by two Pilgrim children.  Sarah and Samuel describe their daily lives from clothing to chores and more.  Students can compare a day in their own lives to that of these two Pilgrims. 

Just for fun, I thought I'd share a Thanksgiving culminating activity from my days as a first grade teacher.  My colleague and I teamed up to have Thanksgiving with our students.  I cooked the turkey; she brought homemade applesauce.  Parents supplied the rest.  Our principal even came to carve the turkey. Our two classes came together year after year to share this special meal. 

I just love their hats!

We served dinner for 43 children!  :)

I'd love to hear about your favorite Thanksgiving read-alouds and activities. Leave me a comment!  

I hope you have a relaxing, refreshing Thanksgiving holiday filled with friends and family!