As someone who values handmade and heirloom treasures, this book is near and dear to my heart! Families will recognize the familiar cadence of the English classic “This is the House that Jack Built” in this heartwarming picture book. In the cumulative story, children set the table (that Grandad built) with freshly picked flowers, hand-sewn napkins, and heirloom utensils. It shows the beauty of tradition and how many hands create a home and gathering. Also it embraces diverse foods and faces in a community of family and friends.
This story is perfect for Thanksgiving, with tradition, a feast, and giving thanks. Also it would be a great story to read aloud for any holiday or gathering! Buy it here for your next holiday or find it at your favorite independent bookstore!
Extend the story!
- An heirloom is a valuable object that has belonged to a family for several generations. Do you have any heirlooms? Share their history.
- Do you own any handmade items? Who made them? What does that mean to your family?
- Are there any items you and your child could make for the table?
- Feeling crafty? Sew up your own set of cloth napkins! Check out this tutorial.
- Feeling slightly crafty? You can make no-sew napkins with any cloth and pinking shears! Simply measure and cut. (Standard napkin sizes are 14″ for lunch/appetizers and 20″ for dinner.)
- What are some dishes you could make (with a little help) to share with your family and friends?
For a full week of Thanksgiving activities, check our our Thanksgiving Break plans!