Squanto's Journey by Joseph Bruchac

 

Title: Squanto's Journey

Author: Joseph Bruchac

Illustrator: Greg Shed

Genre: Historical Fiction

Major Awards: None

Ages: 4-10 Years old

Summary:

This story is about a Native American Indian named Squanto, and how he came to be one of the first settlers to colonize in America. Squanto's family were leaders of the Patuxet people, and he was raised to be a leader too. In 1614, Squanto was forced to move to Spain. During the 1614, white men had often come to fish in their bay and trade.The white men often brought gifts in exchange for beavers and deer skins. John Smith was one of the English captain, and so was Thomas Hunt. However, John Smith had more experiences in dealing with other Indians. When, John Smith left, Thomas Hunt offered a feast in his ship. More than 20 other Indians came to feast inside Hunt's ship. Thomas Hunt was not a friendly men at all. This was a trap, and the Indians knew that they were going to have to leave their family, their people and their land. Soon, the Indians took off and they landed on Malaga in Spain. Thomas Hunt sold the Indians as slaves. However, there were a group of Christians who lived in Malagna, and helped the Indians become set free. When the Indians saw this act, they wanted to learn more of their ways. So, the Indians allowed the Christians to teach them about their ways of thanking the Great mystery. In 1916, Squanto sailed back to New England. Many people were illed in New England. The illness had spread across several places, including Squanto's family died from the illness. That November, when the Mayflower landed, the Pokanoket tribe did nor get close to the English men. Squanto did not only teach his people how to survive, but he also taught the newcomers how to survive too. For every new comer that came to Squanto's land, they would try to make peace. Squanto even taught the people how to hunt and harvest. With the help of Squanto and his people, the English have learned enough hunting and fishing to provide the food for a great feast. This feast was for all the people. As the people all ate together, both English and Indian gave thanks for all their blessings. Squanto gave thanks to the creator of all things.

Book Evaluation:

1) I would recommend this book to my class because it is based on true historical events. It teaches the students what the meaning of Thanksgiving really is. 

2) I would recommend this book from the grade level Pre-Kinder to Fifth grade level.

3) I would use this book in the unit of History or Art. I would use this book, specifically on Thanksgiving week or when I would introduce a topic about the first settlers. After their read aloud, I would have the students create a sketch about what was talked about. Then, I would have them create their own art activity.