When is a book about giving thanks not just about thanksgiving?
When it is a look at the transformative power of gratitude and how the essence of that attitude has infused all walks of life for thousands of years—and continues to do so.
When does someone without a vote impact an entire nation?
When that someone is Sarah Josepha Hale, a widowed mother of five with no formal schooling who because one of the most influential editors of the 19th century.
When did a member of the media influence the oval office to embrace unity?
When things were at their worst. When all seemed hopeless. When times were darkest. When thanks and unity seemed unattainable.
What kind of holiday can be celebrated year ‘round?
The kind that is about a state of mind, rather and any particular day of the year. The kind that moves us to gather together.
“With engaging writing and fresh research, everything comes together in a thoroughly enjoyable package. Readers will find humor (Kiernan’s take on turducken: “a poultry nesting doll with gravy”), pathos (public events were canceled during the 1918 flu pandemic), and surprises (Pilgrims weren’t connected to the holiday until 1939, when FDR attempted to change the date). Lots to consider, especially with Thanksgiving just around the corner.”
The Young Readers edition of We Gather Together joins the adult nonfiction title and the children’s picture book Giving Thanks to create a family read centered on gratitude and the true history of how Thanksgiving became a national holiday.
The Young Readers Edition is intended for kids ages 8 to 12, grades 3 to 7.
“In this provocative, longform approach to celebrating all things Thanksgiving, Kiernan’s take on the holiday is revised now for younger audiences. It is thoroughly researched, both political and personal, as well as steadfastly invested in ensuring the legacy of Sarah Josepha Hale, the oft-forgotten mother of the holiday.”
The children’s picture book, Giving Thanks, joins both the adult nonfiction title We Gather Together and the Young Readers edition of the same name to create a family read that makes Thanksgiving Day every day.
The picture book is intended for kids ages 4 to 8, preschool to third grade.
“A great addition to any library...shares a new side of the story of Thanksgiving.”
More praise for We Gather Together…
“Packed with vivid character sketches, intriguing historical tidbits, and lucid meditations on the psychology of giving thanks, this unique chronicle casts the holiday in a new light.”
“Kiernan traces the history of the formalization of Thanksgiving Day while reframing the holiday’s sense of gratitude… [and] engagingly explores the economic, political, and cultural roots and consequences of holiday practice… a bright tribute to Thanksgiving’s expression of gratitude and grace.”
“Denise Kiernan is such a gifted writer, and her storytelling prowess is on full display in “We Gather Together”—an unputdownable American tale that could not be more timely.”
“We should all give thanks to Kiernan for rescuing this slice of Americana.”
“WE GATHER TOGETHER reminds us of the importance of gratitude in our own lives, especially during our darkest hours. It uncovers the profound ways in which a seemingly simple holiday has helped shape American history and how it has brought solace during times of upheaval and loss.
Kiernan reminds us of the healing power of gratitude.”
“As a researcher, Denise Kiernan is skilled at finding the lost moments of our national conscience; as a writer, she is brilliant at explaining why these moments matter. Only a writer of Kiernan’s ability can cut through great swaths of history to locate the germinating seed of a national movement that is still moving us.
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“WE GATHER TOGETHER is a surprising and enlightening gem of a book that reexamines the history of one of America’s most beloved traditions. With her trademark wit, verve, and impeccable research, Denise Kiernan brings to full and vibrant life the characters and conflicts surrounding America’s day of gratitude, and shows us how we might all reclaim its stirring power.
—Karen Abbott, New York Times bestselling author of The Ghosts of Eden Park and Liar,Temptress, Soldier, Spy
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