Everyone knows that turkey is the centerpiece of the Thanksgiving table. The Pilgrims shared wild turkey with the Native Americans at the official first Thanksgiving. However, as Pardon Me. It’s Ham, Not Turkey explains, some folks living in Virginia actually celebrated a meal a thanks an entire year before the Pilgrims sat down for the first Thanksgiving. With the state of Virginia known for its fine ham, perhaps, as Pardon Me. It’s Ham, Not Turkey argues, perhaps ham should be the real centerpiece of the big Thanksgiving meal.
Recommended for readers ages 4 and older, Pardon Me. It’s Ham, Not Turkey by Lisa Suhay with illustrations by Pamela Barcita is a clever new book for the Thanksgiving holiday. Instead of a traditional turkey, the story argues that, based on the history of Thanksgiving in the United States, ham, not turkey, should be served at Thanksgiving dinner.
Told in a rhymed verse, Pardon Me. It’s Ham, Not Turkey contains language perfect for emerging readers. Although recommended for older children, I first read the book to my toddler daughter last year. She seemed to enjoy listening to the rhymes. Furthermore, rhyming is very important for language development, so I recommend reading this holiday book aloud to even the youngest of children.
In addition to the rhyming verse, Pardon Me. It’s Ham, Not Turkey also contains illustrations on each page. The drawn pictures help bring the text to life. My toddler daughter also seemed to enjoy looking at the colorful illustrations.
Final Verdict: Pardon Me. It’s Ham, Not Turkey by Lisa Suhay with illustrations by Pamela Barcita is a modern story for the Thanksgiving holiday. Instead of simply sharing the history and myths of Thanksgiving, Pardon Me. It’s Ham, Not Turkey offers an updated take on the historical day of thanks. If you are looking for a new Thanksgiving book to read with your kids that does not simply retell the classic Thanksgiving story, I highly recommend Pardon Me. It’s Ham, Not Turkey.
Purchase Pardon Me. It’s Ham, Not Turkey on Amazon via my affiliate link.
Image Credits
‘Pardon Me. It’s Ham, Not Turkey’ Book Review © 2013 Heather Johnson
Cover of Pardon Me. It’s Ham, Not Turkey © 2013 Heather Johnson
Inside Pages of Pardon Me. It’s Ham, Not Turkey © 2013 Heather Johnson
