‘Mystery Vine’ and ‘This is the Feast’

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In a world where fresh foods are available in grocery stores year around, harvest time may seem to have lost its high status on the calendar. It’s good, nevertheless, to pause each autumn and be thankful for the life-giving riches of the earth.

A “Mystery Vine” grows in a garden tended by two happy children and their helpful dog. Fluent, natural rhymed text takes the project from seedtime to harvest. “Last spring we planted lots of seeds. / We watched them grow, and pulled the weeds.” Throughout the growing season, the children enjoy other garden veggies and wonder about the mysterious creeping vine — until its large yellow blossoms turn to pumpkins.

Mixed-media collages fill each two-page spread with lively action and colorful details. The last five pages of the book are devoted to harvest recipes and activities young children can do with a bit of adult assistance, from baking Pumpkin-Apple Bread to making a “Book Vine” that encourages reading. “Mystery Vine” is a harvest-time book that can be enjoyed at any time of the year.

Thanksgiving books abound in libraries and bookstores, but “This Is the Feast” stands out in the crowd. Here is a carefully researched nonfiction work presented in picture book format with poetic text and striking illustrations. The account successfully navigates the mine field of stereotypes sometimes associated with early American stories, presenting both the Puritans and the Indians with respect.

Text and art work together to express the strong contrasts in the story: fear and friendship, elation and despair. The triumphant “This is the Mayflower, sturdy and strong. / Her sails skim the skies as she journeys along” features a boldly painted ship against a vivid blue sky. On the next page, wretched passengers crouch miserably below deck, described as “These are the Pilgrims, down on their knees, / seasick and frightened on rough, rolling seas.” Throughout the story — landfall, the first killing winter and lifesaving contact with the Indians, the hard work of summer and joy of harvest — life is unified by one constant refrain, “Thanks be to God.” Reading this lovely book aloud at Thanksgiving dinner could become a meaningful family tradition.

“Mystery Vine” and “This Is the Feast” are autumn harvest books that not only will please preschool and primary children but also are just right for family sharing.

Children’s literature specialist Paula Morrow lives and writes in Princeton. She welcomes comments and book suggestions at: Reviews@PaulaMorrow.com.

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