Squanto and the Miracle of Thanksgiving
Written by Eric Metaxas
Illustrated by Shannon Stirnweis
It is like the story of Joseph from our sacred Scriptures,” he said. “Like you, Joseph was also taken from his home and sold as a slave. But God had a plan for him.
Squanto and the Miracle of Thanksgiving begins in 1608 when Squanto is a young Patuxet boy who is excited to see strangers with shiny beads in huge ships. Yet tragically he is captured and sold into slavery in Spain. How does Squanto get back to his homeland in the New World? Will he ever see his family again?
Squanto’s story is a sad one and may be difficult for young readers; however, his story is an important lesson to all of us. He shows readers how to choose forgiveness over bitterness and retribution; how to learn new things no matter the situation; and how to share one’s knowledge with those who are struggling, regardless of their skin tone or race. His story shows the providence of God in saving Squanto and then how He uses Squanto to save an entire village.
While this book may be difficult for young children, it certainly is an important story for children and adults alike. It contributes to a better understanding of the difficulties faced by early American settlers and their Indian neighbors. It encourages readers to reflect on the real historical events which led to the Thanksgiving Day holiday. It demonstrates again the many things for which we as Americans have to be thankful during the Thanksgiving holiday.
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