Review: I Am the Turkey

I Am the Turkey by Michele Sobel Spirn, illustrated by Joy Allen (HarperTrophy, 2004).

Mark’s second grade class is going to put on a Thanksgiving play. Mark hopes he’ll get a good part: a Pilgrim, maybe, or an Indian. To his surprise, he’s assigned the role of a turkey. His teacher says it’s a good part because without a turkey, there can’t be a Thanksgiving. But oh, boy! When the other kids find out that he’s a turkey, the teasing begins: “Mark’s the class turkey!” Mark’s brother chimes right in. “The Pilgrims and Indians eat you,” he reminds Mark.

Mark tries everything to get out of being a turkey. Still, the show must go on, and before the end of the show, Mark learns that turkeys are important. Sometimes a turkey can save the whole show!

With its bright, whimsical illustrations by Joy Allen and its accessible language, this seasonal book will appeal to young readers who are ready for a little challenge. It’s also a great read-aloud book for the Thanksgiving season.