It's that time of year when all the relatives gather at Grandma's for Thanksgiving dinner. Gavin is less than thrilled to find himself stuck in the room for babies and toddlers, so when his cousin Rhonda suggests they make their own fun, Gavin is in. Unfortunately, trying to sneak out to the backyard is not as easy as the duo thinks. There's many obstacles like guard dogs, aunts, and teenage zombies. And just when they've almost reached their goal, the weather turns against them. Will they be able to make their great escape or will they be returned to the baby room? Check out this holiday treat to find out.

The Bottom Line: This humorous picture book is packed with bold colors. Illustrated from a child's perspective, it's a super fun read. Suggested holiday reading for kids ages PreK - Grade 1.

This review also appears at the Mini Book Bytes Book Review Blog. ( )

Gabby and Jasper have had me reading this one over and over all month. It is quite funny and they've even been acting it out themselves, which is absolutely entertaining and adorable. "Oh no! They are going to pinch our cheeks," they yell while diving from room to room. I'd say the mark of a truly great children's story is if it inspires creative and imaginative play, so The Great Thanksgiving Escape deserves a spot among our most favorite children's books. ( )

This book is about some kids who are trying to escape from all the mushy old lady kisses and cheek pinches they normally get at family functions and other stuff like that!

This is a good book to read to get your kids laughing! Super silly and fun book!

Picture book. This book showcases a bunch of kids on Thanksgiving that have no idea what to do. Then all of a sudden one girl has the great idea of trying to get outside, but in order to do that they have to go through all types of obstacles such as aunts that pinch cheeks and avoiding the room where the cousins gather to play video games and be on their phones. When they finally make it to the door to get out they find that it is snowing, but instead of giving up and staying inside they go out and play because they didn't risk themselves to not go out and play. ( )

This story is about two cousins who are trying to escape the different members of the family and make a run for it to get outside and swing. They run into many obstacles such as the hall of aunts, the wall of butts, the room of teenagers, the guard dogs, etc. When they finally reach their destination, they realize its raining outside. Regardless of the bad weather, they don't let it ruin their fun and they go out to swing anyways.

This story was cute, funny, and relatable to many! It is perfect to read aloud to elementary aged students right before the holidays. It reminded me a lot of Thanksgiving in my family and always trying to create fun with my cousins.