Guests

Reach for this book when your child begins to question established holiday traditions or feels a pull toward independence that creates friction within the family. While many Thanksgiving stories focus on the arrival of newcomers, this narrative centers on Moss, an Algonquin boy struggling with his own 'coming of age' transition and his frustration over his father inviting strangers to their table. It is a quiet, thoughtful exploration of what it means to be a guest in a home and a guest in the world. Moss and his friend Trouble navigate the complexities of community expectations and the personal quest for identity. The story is emotionally resonant for children aged 8 to 12 who are moving away from childhood certainties and toward a more nuanced understanding of the world. It provides a vital perspective on a historical moment, focusing on indigenous agency and internal growth rather than just the external historical events.