An Outlaw Thanksgiving by Caldecott Medal winner, Emily Arnold McCully, is an historical fiction picture book. This book for older readers is set in the American west during the late 1890s. Based on a true event, An Outlaw Thanksgiving tells the fictional story of Clara and her mother as they travel by train to meet Clara’s father in Utah.

The Story Begins

At one stop during their trip, Clara notices a Wanted Poster for the outlaw Robert LeRoy Parker, alias Butch Cassidy. After she befriends a gentleman named Mr. Jones, the train becomes snowbound. Passengers leave the train and pay local sled drivers to take them to nearby towns.

Mr. Jones pays a driver to take him the day and a half ride to Brown’s Hole, where he'll spend Thanksgiving at a friend's ranch. Befor leaving the train, Mr. Jones invites Clara and her mother to join him.

Reluctantly, Clara’s mother agrees. What she doesn't know is that their hosts are outlaws.

Brown’s Hole Thanksgiving With Outlaws

When Clara, her mother, and Mr. Jones arrive, they find a grand Thanksgiving banquet given by former cowhands for the residents of Brown’s Hole.

Clara is sure she’s seen Bob, the friendly man who offers everyone seconds, thirds, and even fourths, somewhere before. The Wanted Poster. Bob is Robert LeRoy Parker. Butch Cassidy.

After Clara and her mother reunite with her father, she decides to wait until the family reaches California before she tells him her secret. She and her mother were guests of Butch Cassidy and a gang of outlaws for Thanksgiving.

Story Details and Illustrations

The author includes enough historical details for readers to feel they are on the train and at Brown’s Hole with Clara. Lovely muted illustrations create a wintry picture of Clara’s adventure.

I especially liked the way Emily Arnold McCully illustrated Clara’s emotions with expressions that ranged from curious, intrigued, concerned, confused, and maybe even a little fearful, before ending with happiness once reunited with her father.

Author’s Notes

Author’s notes at the end of the book explain train travel in the late 1800s. The notes mention how railroads sped up the settling of the country. The greed and corruption of the railroad robber barons is also mentioned. As is a brief background of Butch and his gang’s early days. References used for the story are listed. As a former history teacher, I appreciate these details.

A Different Thanksgiving Book

Are you looking for a Thanksgiving picture book that doesn’t mention Pilgrims or turkeys for Thanksgiving? If so, An Outlaw Thanksgiving might be the book for you.

I pray each of you has a blessed Thanksgiving, giving thanks with a grateful heart. Whether you spend the day with outlaws or not.

I wish you well.

Sandy

Here’s what you can expect from me. In my posts, you’ll find words of encouragement for writers, book reviews, and discussions on the craft of writing. I am a former elementary school teacher, regular contributor to Guideposts devotional books, and a conference speaker. I write articles, devotions, and stories for adult and children’s publications. You can find me every Tuesday and Thursday at www.sandykirbyquandt.com. Please stop by.