Turkey Monster Thanksgiving

Plot Summary

Nine-year-old Katie Jordan lives with her dad and three-year-old brother. This year, instead of celebrating Thanksgiving in their traditional way by eating pizza in their pajamas, Katie wants to create the perfect holiday and be just like a "real" family. But by Thanksgiving Day, Katie has invited guests Dad didn't expect, festooned the house with what may be poison oak, set the sweet potatoes on fire, and forced her little brother to face a dreadful turkey monster by himself. At the end, however, Katie, her family, and her guests sit down to a most unusual dinner—one that succeeds because it comes more from the heart than from fancy decorations and elaborate menus.

Awards

2006 Beverly Cleary Children’s Choice Award Master List

Reviews

"Readers are apt to sympathize with Katie's concerns about the cohesiveness of her family, while deft touches of humor add comic relief. . . .Richly drawn characterizations, a brisk pace, and a theme subtly woven into the plot add up to an enjoyable read." School Library Journal

"...this tale makes clear that every family has its own traditions, none more valid or 'real' than the next." Publishers Weekly

"This has the comfy feeling of a novel from an earlier era, even as predicaments pile one upon another as Katie counts down to the special day. Nothing is terribly serious: she has invited company against her father's wishes; Dad has a big report due on Thanksgiving Day (it's not a holiday for Dad's Japanese clients); Tyler runs away; and the turkey won't cook. But don't worry; all turns out well in this simple, easy-to-digest holiday fare." Booklist

"...this is a perceptive as well as a sympathetic account of a kid's first awareness of different family approaches. ... Vivid touches of character (Katie shares with Claire an appreciation for lists and enjoys playing with her little brother's toys) and authentic dialogue ('My father says that when you don't have a mother, people notice socks,' pontificates the all-knowing Claire) add liveliness. This is a likable and accessible story, suitable as a readaloud or an easygoing realone when holiday frenzy strikes." The Bulletin

Associated Keywords
holiday, holidays, novel, novels