We Give Thanks by Cynthia Rylant, illustrated by Sergio Ruzzier. Beach Lane Books, 2021. 9781442465077
Rating: 1-5 (5 is an excellent or a Starred review) 5
Format: Hardcover
Genre: Picture book
What did you like about the book? A rabbit and a frog roam the (Italian?) countryside noticing the many things they are thankful for. They encounter other animals while at a painting class, picking apples and enjoying nature. Each page spread is a charming scene showing the food, friends and love they observe. A big feast where all the animals eat together finishes the story: “Bless our nights and bless our days/and bless all those we meet./We give thanks for everything,/and now…it’s time to EAT!”
The rhyming text is playful and and rhythmic, and Ruzzier’s lovely pen & ink and watercolor illustrations provide an utterly charming Mediterranean backdrop. The warm pastel colors make the pages glow with a friendly light. This is a perfect read for “thankful” themed units or story times, and I like that it doesn’t mention any particular holiday.
Anything you didn’t like about it? No
To whom would you recommend this book? For ages 2-6.
Who should buy this book? Day care centers and public libraries
Where would you shelve it ? Picture books
Should we (librarians/readers) put this on the top of our “to read” piles? Near the top
Reviewer’s Name, Library (or school), City and State: Stephanie Tournas, Robbins Library, Arlington, MA
Date of review: October 1, 2021
Youth Services Book Review 
You must be logged in to post a comment.