Home - Keepunumuk: Weeâchumun's Thanksgiving Story

A Wampanoag story told in a Native tradition. Maple and Quill learn the story of Weeâchumun (corn) and what really happened at the first “Thanksgiving” from their grandmother.

The Thanksgiving story that most Americans know only celebrates the Pilgrims. Without members of the Wampanoag tribe who already lived on the land where the Pilgrims settled, the Pilgrims would never have made it through their first winter. Without Weeâchumun (corn), the Native people wouldn’t have helped.

Keepunumuk is an important picture book that retells the Thanksgiving story for a more inclusive America, a story that honors the Native peoples who made it possible.

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Reviews

One of the most coveted designations in the book industry, the Kirkus Star marks books of exceptional merit.

A much-needed Thanksgiving retelling that centers the Wampanoag people.

Full 1

A good choice for libraries striving to share Indigenous perspectives.

School Library Journal

Full 1

This book was a great starting point for discussing colonization from the Indigenous perspective and provides great information surrounding how the Indigenous people saw their land...[It] can be used for any age group - not just the younger children.

Kelsea | Goodreads

Full 1

This book does such a great job at flipping the story's perspective and providing an introduction to why this day isn't celebrated by some, but it's done in a way that's still sensitive to young readers. Kudos to the authors for this book!

Lindsey | Goodreads

Full 1

I can [see] this book being used in classrooms all over, and I think it should be taught every Thanksgiving. If you're intrigued by the description, or if you're looking for Native American texts for children, I highly recommend that you check out this book when it comes out in August!

Leighton | Goodreads

Full 1

This is a Thanksgiving story that we need, perfect for preschool and kindergarten, as we teach students “whose voice is being heard?” and to hear multiple perspectives.

Audra | Goodreads