The Thanksgiving Storybook: Over 60 Holiday Tales & Poems

Harriet Beecher Stowe · Louisa May Alcott · Nora Perry · Andrew Lang · George Eliot · Annie Hamilton Donnell · Mary Jane Holmes · Eugene Field · Nathaniel Hawthorne · Alfred Henry Lewis · O. Henry · Hezekiah Butterworth · Edward Everett Hale · Sarah Orne Jewett · Susan Coolidge · Amy Ella Blanchard · Charlotte Perkins Gilman · Cornelius Mathews · Olive Thorne Miller · Alfred Gatty · Ida Hamilton Munsell · Eleanor H. Porter · C. A. Stephens · Lucy Maud Montgomery · Horatio Alger · Rose Terry Cooke · Edna Payson Brett · Isabel Gordon Curtis · Fannie Wilder Brown · Alice Wheildon · Pauline Shackleford Colyar · H. R. Schoolcraft

May 2022 · DigiCat

About this ebook

The Thanksgiving Storybook stands as a cornucopia of literary harvest, meticulously gathered to present the multifaceted essence of Thanksgiving through an array of stylistic narratives. From the pastoral charm and early Americana reflective in its pages to the heartfelt tales of gratitude, community, and familial bonds, this anthology delves into the very heart of what it means to celebrate this quintessentially American holiday. The diversity of the collection is its strength, showcasing a range of genres from short stories and poems to essays, each contributing to a richer, more nuanced understanding of Thanksgiving. Standout pieces captivate the reader with both the sincerity and complexity of the holiday's significance, woven into the fabric of American culture and history without focusing on the contribution of any single author. The backgrounds of the contributing authors and editors are as varied as their writing styles, encompassing a spectrum of the 19th and early 20th centuries' literary figures. From the pioneering feminist narratives of Charlotte Perkins Gilman to the cherished tales of Lucy Maud Montgomery, each contributor brings their unique voice to the anthology, united by the common theme of Thanksgiving. Their collective works not only highlight the historical and cultural dimensions of the holiday but also echo the literary movements of their times, offering insights into the societal values and personal reflections of the era. This anthology aligns itself with the cultural, historical, and literary tapestry of Thanksgiving, inviting readers on a journey that transcends mere celebration. It opens up avenues for deeper appreciation of the holiday's roots and its evolving significance in American tradition. The Thanksgiving Storybook is recommended for those who seek not only to understand the historical and cultural underpinnings of Thanksgiving but also to enjoy a rich mosaic of literary craftsmanship. It promises an enlightening exploration of the themes of gratitude, community, and the human connection to tradition and history, making it an invaluable addition to any literary collection.

About the author

Harriet Beecher Stowe (1811–1896) was an American abolitionist and author, hailed for her landmark novel, 'Uncle Tom's Cabin,' which played a significant role in galvanizing public opinion against slavery prior to the American Civil War. Born into a family with strong abolitionist beliefs, Stowe used her literary skills to ardently advocate for human rights and social reform. Her writing career burgeoned with the serial publication of 'Uncle Tom's Cabin' in the National Era in 1851–52, which was later published as a novel in 1852 and became an international bestseller. Apart from her most famous work, Stowe authored numerous books and writings, such as 'The Thanksgiving Storybook,' which showcased her narrative skills and deep-seated values of family and gratitude. Stowe's literary style often incorporated sentimentalism, with vivid character portrayals that challenged the societal norms of her time. Her contributions to American literature and her impact on the anti-slavery movement have led to widespread scholarly interest in her work and legacy. Stowe's novels are an intrinsic part of the discourse around 19th-century American society, culture, and the role of literature in social change.