Compare how the first Thanksgiving was celebrated to how we celebrate the holiday today.

This book is about what Thanksgiving was like long ago and what Thanksgiving is like today.

Veteran historian Robert Tracy McKenzie sets aside centuries of legend and political stylization to present the mixed blessing that was the first Thanksgiving. Like good narrative history, McKenzie's critical account of our Pilgrim ancestors confronts us with our own unresolved issues of national and spiritual identity.

Introduces the history and traditions of the Thanksgiving holiday, including the original fall harvest celebration, how it became an official U.S. holiday, and how people celebrate it today.

Tells the story of the Pilgrims' first Thankgiving.

Originally published: New York: Orchard Books, 1990.

Percy Isaac Gifford's Official Thanksgiving Decree: I officially command you to eat EVERYTHING you see! Percy knows just what to do to get the most out of this delicious holiday. And so will you if you follow his ten simple rules. From "the early bird gets the turkey" to "life is sweeter when you eat sweets," his rules will help you eat your way through the big meal. But is there more to Thanksgiving than stuffed turkey and sweet potatoes with marshmallows? See how Percy discovers the true recipe for a perfect Thanksgiving holiday.