Opening with images of the Mayflower sailing across the ocean, This is the Feast guides young readers through the arrival of the Pilgrims in America and culminates with the first Thanksgiving. Simple rhyming text paired with light-filled illustrations brings the history of this time-honoured tradition to life.
Written for 4 – 8-year-olds, Diane Shore’s text avoids delving into graphic depictions of the hardships the Pilgrims experienced during their voyage and consequent arrival in America. Nor does she gloss over them, providing simple explanations of the difficulties and trials facing the Pilgrims.
As an experienced children's author and frequent presenter in schools, Shore is well acquainted with the words that create satisfaction in the young heart. Her text is rhythmic and features repetitive elements. Nearly every rhyming couplet begins with the words “This is…” or “These are…”.
After three such couplets are written, Shore gathers three sets of couplets, starts with her traditional opening in the first couplet only, and closes with a cry of praise to God. Repetitive structures produce some of the strongest children’s literature. Rhythm and rhyme feed the child’s mind and satisfy the soul, This is the Feast excels in both.
Megan Lloyd provides a superb compliment to the text with magnificent illustrations that are full of saturated colours and texture. She successfully uses light to create emotional tension throughout the story the illustrations accompany.
The opening picture of the Mayflower on the sea is striking; the play of colours on the water and in the sky makes my heart soar. Her use of layering creates activity in the scenes and she absolutely excels in her detailed depictions of livestock and agriculture. The combination of her talent with Shore’s words seals the deal on this title, raising my estimation of their work from good to superb.
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