Before I get into the Thanksgiving spirit of Puritans and Pilgrims I thought I’d spotlight the other side of the fall holiday season first. Namely, the Native American contributions to this time of year and the legacy that surrounds it. After all, who do you think gave us the first turkeys, corn, beans, and pumpkins that we so associate with this time of year?
As usual, I celebrate with reading. Some of my favorites include legends, such as The Myths of the Cherokee as well as pretty much any tribal or cultural myths I can get a hold of from other regions of North America. I watch some of my favorite movies, like The Last of the Mohicans and I more or less give myself over to whatever autumnal whims pop into my head.
For fun reads and stories, try The Education of Little Big Tree. For history buffs there’s an endless supply of non-fiction accounts and histories from which to choose as well. I like reading all of it because it provides food for thought and something apropos to talk about when I find myself around the Thanksgiving table.
There's definitely some good stuff out there. I'm always surprised at how little my students know- they've seen Disney's Pocahontas, but that's about it.
ReplyDeleteWell, I suppose Pocahontas is better than nothing. I've always found kids respond to myths and legends pretty well if told in the right context too:)
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