The Thanksgiving Visitor

Truman Capote. Illustrated by Beth Peck. Knopf Books for Young Readers. 1996. ISBN: 978-0679838982

Plot Summary: Buddy is a second grader with a big problem! He is always being bullied by Odd Henderson, the meanest boy in the class. Eventually, his teacher suggests that Buddy attempt to become friends with Odd and extend an invitation to Thanksgiving dinner. Buddy is not too happy with this idea. Buddy lives with his extended family including his best friend, his elderly cousin Miss Sooke. Thanksgiving was normally a very special time for the two of them and they both looked forward to completing the holiday preparations together. Buddy dreads having Buddy take part in the celebrations and his fears are realized when Buddy commits a terrible act while visiting.

Critical Evaluation: Capote does an excellent job of creating a very cosy and homey feel to the book. He brings to live Alabama in 1932 with his descriptions of the food, the people, and the surroundings. The illustration add a great deal to the story as well with their warmth and depictions of everyday moments.Without being very detailed, the paintings impart the mood of the story very clearly. This would be an excellent story for reading aloud during the holidays. The story itself is interesting, full of good detail, and contains a gentle and timeless message.

Reader's Annotation: Buddy loves his live and his family and is looking forward to helping Miss Sooke with the preparations for Thanksgiving. The only thing that might wreck it is having to invite Odd, the biggest bully in town, to share in the Holiday.

About the Author: Truman Capote is well known for writing "In Cold Blood" and "Breakfast at Tiffanies." He has also written short stories, plays, and novels.

Curriculum Ties: Could be read aloud in the classroom around the holiday times. History.
Interest Level: 8-14

Booktalking Ideas:
How do you deal with a bully? Can people change or are "bad" people always that way?
Focus on relationship between Buddy and Miss Sooke.
Challenge Issues: None. If any, can recommend researching Author or reading reviews of the story.
Selection Process: Found by searching "youth holiday books"