Squanto and the First Thanksgiving by Eric Metaxas

This is a retelling of the story of Squanto’s life. It follows him from childhood to when he was taken captive to Spain, his time in London, and his return to America. When he returns home he finds that his entire tribe has died from smallpox. Squanto soon witnesses the Pilgrims coming to the land and after a hard winter, teaches them how to fish and farm. That fall, they celebrated the first Thanksgiving with Pilgrims and Native Americans.

This is a very informational picture book. While there is a fair amount of text on many pages, your children will learn about the entire life of Squanto and all the hardships he endured. Be aware that there is a page where Squante wonders if he is dead and is being taken to the “land of the spirits on the other side of the world, in the land of light, where the sun god dwells.” This could give you an opportunity to talk to your children about what other religions believe and how we need to show them Jesus. The illustration style is a bit different and while not my favorite, it accompanies the story well.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclaimer for more info.

1. What are two things from Squanto’s story that were surprising to you?
2. How did God use Squanto’s circumstances for good?
3. If Squanto had been in his home when smallpox came, he likely would have died too. If Squanto wasn’t there, how would that have changed things for the Pilgrims?