If You Sailed on the Mayflower in 1620

Like a master alchemist, Ann McGovern takes historical facts that are too often dry and uninspired, in their presentation, and transmutes them into a tale that illuminates the imagination. In "If You Sailed on the Mayflower," McGovern retells the story of the pilgrims with the addition of golden nuggets, for the 2-6th grade set, like the fact that there were no bathrooms on the Mayflower, and its passengers had to wear the same clothes for a total of 66 days and nights, as they voyaged toward religious freedom. History is simply more fun for children when it includes amusing details, like the fact that the settlers of New England were sometimes called "glib-glabbity puke stockings," a teaching tactic reminiscent of Shakespearean insults. Of course, I have a special appreciation for books that are written for children in a way that breathes new life into old stories, but it wouldn't surprise me if I'm not the only adult interested in what pilgrims really ate on Thanksgiving, given the absence of sugar (what, no pumpkin pie?). All the details necessary for a formal education are also included in the question and answer format of the book, perfect for pre-thanksgiving reading. Christine Miller coauthor of "Bestemor's Brown Bread" Bestemor's Brown Bread

I am a teacher who was looking for a book for my students to use when we study Thanksgiving. Without a doubt, this story is one of the best that we use. It is a great introduction to reading non-fiction, and it provides a wealth of information for students, parents, and teachers.My students love the story. They can easily understand the Question-Answer format, and it is not overwhelming in its content. It's written in an 'easy reading' style that the students can understand. They are really interested in what the kids did during this time, especially what they did for fun.I recommend this book to any student who wants to know more about the Pilgrims and their arrival to America. I also recommend this to any adult who is looking for a wonderful non-fiction book for their favorite child(ren).

I got "If You Sailed on the Mayflower in 1620" for our Thanksgiving unit based on several glowing recommendations. I was not disappointed. Both my 5 yo and I had a hard stopping once we got started. I learned things about the Pilgrims I'd never known. And, the content is fascinating for children. It covered such curious topics as Did they bathe on the Mayflower?, What did they eat?, How were people who broke the law punished?, What did children do? It was written to entertain anyone over the age of 4. It's a question/answer book and exceptionally well done.

I purchased this book for my Grandchildren but this is not only a great book for 4-8 year olds but for anyone over 4. You might learn some things you didn't know. By the way, if you ever go to Plymouth you can go on the Mayflower II, and be sure to visit Plimoth Plantation (it's like going back in time to 1630).

This book by Ann McGovern depicts the life that you would have had on the Mayflower. You get a sense and almost feel like you are there with the rest of the pilgrims in 1620. The detail is just great and is a book that all kids should read from a historical standpoint.