WEEKLY BOOK RECS: 6 book reviews and suggestions every week
Hey, bookish babes! Can you believe Thanksgiving is almost here? Whether you’re planning your holiday menu or cozying up with some pumpkin pie, I’ve got the perfect lineup of Thanksgiving-themed books to get you in the holiday spirit. From historical reads to heartwarming romances and a sprinkle of fiction, here are thanksgiving six book recs to enjoy as we give thanks and dive into the season of cozy vibes. Let’s get into it!
1. Mayflower: A Story of Courage, Community, and War by Nathaniel Philbrick
Rating: 4.5/5
Genre: Historical Non-Fiction
Tropes: Founding History, Pilgrims and Native Americans, Survival
Main Characters: William Bradford, Massasoit, Myles Standish
What It's About:Mayflower traces the story of the Pilgrims’ perilous journey to the New World and the first Thanksgiving, but it doesn’t stop there. This historical non-fiction book dives deep into the complex relationships between the Pilgrims and Native Americans, the challenges of colonization, and the eventual conflict that shaped early American history.
Review:If you’re a history buff—or just someone who wants to know more about the real story behind Thanksgiving—Mayfloweris an amazing deep dive. It goes beyond the standard Thanksgiving myth and offers a nuanced look at the early settlers and their interactions with the Native Americans. Philbrick’s writing is compelling, bringing history to life in a way that feels fresh and accessible. It’s definitely more of an informational read, but if you’re in the mood to learn about the origins of Thanksgiving with a side of drama and survival, this book is a winner.
2. Thanksgiving by Ellen Cooney
Rating: 4.3/5
Genre: Contemporary Fiction, Historical Fiction
Tropes: Family Saga, Multiple Generations, Holiday Traditions
Main Characters: The Morley Family
What It's About:Thanksgiving spans over three centuries, following the women of the Morley family and their evolving Thanksgiving celebrations. Each chapter highlights a different generation, showing how the holiday, family dynamics, and traditions change over time—from colonial times to modern-day America.
Review:This book is a warm, heartfelt tribute to family and tradition. The multiple generations give it this lovely, layered feel, and the way the author weaves together history with personal stories is so touching. It’s one of those reads that makes you think about your own family traditions and how they’ve evolved. The pacing is a bit slow at times, but that’s part of its charm—it feels like sitting by the fire and listening to old family stories. If you love multigenerational tales with a holiday focus, Thanksgiving is a perfect pick for this time of year.
3. The Thanksgiving Visitor by Truman Capote
Rating: 4.8/5
Genre: Classic Fiction, Short Story
Tropes: Childhood Memories, Small Town, Moral Lessons
Main Characters: Buddy, Miss Sook, Odd Henderson
What It's About:In this nostalgic short story, Capote revisits his childhood in rural Alabama, where his elderly cousin Miss Sook invites the town bully, Odd Henderson, to Thanksgiving dinner. What follows is a heartwarming tale about forgiveness, kindness, and the unexpected lessons we learn during the holidays.
Review:This short story is absolutely beautiful. Capote’s writing is so vivid and nostalgic—it instantly transports you to a simpler time. The themes of forgiveness and human decency really hit home, especially in today’s world. It’s a quick read (perfect if you’re busy with holiday prep!), but it packs an emotional punch. If you’re looking for something classic that’ll leave you feeling all warm and fuzzy, The Thanksgiving Visitor is a gem you shouldn’t miss.
4. An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving by Louisa May Alcott
Rating: 4.6/5
Genre: Classic Fiction, Historical Fiction
Tropes: Family Bonding, Nostalgic Vibes, Holiday Chaos
Main Characters: The Bassett Family
What It's About:Set in 19th-century New Hampshire, this charming novella follows the Bassett children as they attempt to prepare Thanksgiving dinner on their own after their parents are called away on an emergency. With plenty of mishaps and heartwarming moments, it’s a tale of family, resourcefulness, and holiday cheer.
Review:An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving is exactly what you’d expect from Louisa May Alcott—wholesome, comforting, and full of family love. The Bassett kids are so endearing, and watching them try (and fail) to put together Thanksgiving dinner is hilarious but also sweet. It’s got that cozy, old-timey feel that makes it perfect for reading on a chilly afternoon with a cup of tea. If you’re in the mood for a classic Thanksgiving story that’s light, fun, and heartwarming, this novella is a total delight.
5. A Nantucket Christmas by Nancy Thayer (Romance)
Rating: 4.3/5
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Holiday Romance
Tropes: Blended Family, Second Chances, Holiday Magic
Main Characters: Nicole Somerset, Sebastian, Kat
What It's About:Nicole Somerset has just married Sebastian, and this Thanksgiving she’s navigating her first holiday with his adult daughter, Kat, who isn’t thrilled about her new stepmother. As the family gathers on the charming island of Nantucket, tensions rise, but the magic of the holidays may just bring them closer together.
Review:A Nantucket Christmas is such a cozy, heartfelt read! The blend of family dynamics, second-chance love, and holiday magic makes it perfect for curling up with a blanket. The scenic Nantucket setting adds to the warm, festive vibe. Nicole is a super relatable heroine—her struggles to fit into her new family will tug at your heartstrings, but the story leaves you feeling all the holiday joy. It’s sweet, romantic, and full of holiday cheer. If you’re looking for a feel-good Thanksgiving read, this one will definitely warm your heart.
6. Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors by Sonali Dev (Romance)
Rating: 4.5/5
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Multicultural Romance
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Foodie Romance, Family Drama
Main Characters: Trisha Raje, DJ Caine
What It's About:In this modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice, Trisha Raje is a talented neurosurgeon who’s not exactly known for her social graces. DJ Caine is a talented chef, trying to save his sister while clashing with the icy Dr. Raje. But as Thanksgiving approaches, family expectations and undeniable chemistry pull them together in ways they never expected.
Review:If you love foodie romances with family drama and a dash of holiday flavor, Pride, Prejudice, and Other Flavors is perfect! The chemistry between Trisha and DJ is electric, and the slow-burn enemies-to-lovers trope is chef’s kiss. The story also beautifully explores Indian culture, family expectations, and what it means to fight for the people you love. Thanksgiving plays a role in bringing the families t