Turkey Tom

TURKEY TOM - READER REVIEWS
A Pumpkin Sisters Adventure by Perry Lee Thompson

"The perfect Thanksgiving read-aloud!"
My three daughters and I read this together the week before Thanksgiving, and it became an instant family favorite. The Pumpkin sisters remind me so much of my own girls—the protective oldest, the clever middle, and the tenderhearted youngest. When Kelli decides to save Tom the turkey from becoming dinner, all three sisters band together in the most hilarious and heartwarming way.
What I love most is that there's no magic or fantasy—just real kids making a compassionate choice and dealing with the messy consequences. The turkey chase scene had us laughing out loud, and the ending brought tears to my eyes. It's a beautiful story about making room at your table (literally!) for the unexpected.
Perfect for: Ages 7-12, family read-aloud, Thanksgiving season
—Sarah M., mother of three

"I didn't want it to end!"
I loved this book SO MUCH! Kelli is my favorite character because she's brave enough to stand up for what she believes in, even when it's hard. I would totally do the same thing if my dad wanted to cook a turkey that I was friends with!
The part where Tom escapes and all the chickens get out was SO funny! I couldn't stop laughing when Shanda fell in the water bucket. And I really liked Mr. Fillbacker too. He seemed sad and lonely at first, but then he got to be part of their family for Thanksgiving.
The best part is at the end when Tom gets to stay and they all have Thanksgiving together. It made me think about what Thanksgiving is really about—not just the food, but being with people (and turkeys!) you care about.
I give it 5 stars!
—Emma, age 10

Review 3 - Educator Perspective ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Discussion-rich and age-appropriate"
As a 4th grade teacher, I'm always looking for books that spark meaningful conversations, and "Turkey Tom" delivers beautifully. The story raises important questions about compassion, tradition, and what we're willing to sacrifice for what we love—all wrapped in an accessible, humorous adventure.
The Pumpkin sisters are wonderful role models: they work together, they think critically, and they learn from their mistakes. The inclusion of Mr. Fillbacker adds a lovely intergenerational dimension, showing kids how acts of kindness can combat loneliness.
I used this as a read-aloud before Thanksgiving break, and my students were completely engaged. We had rich discussions about empathy, family traditions, and even where our food comes from. The writing is clear and age-appropriate without being condescending.
Highly recommended for: Classroom libraries, Thanksgiving units, character education discussions
—Mrs. Jackson, 4th Grade Teacher

"A heartwarming addition to seasonal collections"
"Turkey Tom" is exactly what we need more of in middle-grade fiction: realistic stories with heart. Unlike many Thanksgiving books that either focus solely on history or veer into heavy-handed lessons, Thompson has crafted a genuine, funny, touching story about a family navigating tradition and change.
The Pumpkin sisters are distinct, believable characters whose dynamic will resonate with siblings everywhere. The turkey chase is genuinely entertaining, the resolution is satisfying without being preachy, and the message about family and belonging is universal.
What sets this apart is its gentleness. There's no villain, no manufactured conflict—just a girl who loves a turkey, a father who has to make a choice, and a family that learns to bend their traditions to make room for what matters most. The inclusion of lonely neighbor Mr. Fillbacker adds depth without overwhelming the main story.
Recommended for: Ages 8-12, Thanksgiving collections, realistic fiction fans, reluctant readers
—Rebecca Torres, Youth Services Librarian

"Made me laugh and cry—in the best way"
I bought this to read to my grandchildren over Thanksgiving, and it was perfect! The story is warm and funny without being silly, and it teaches important lessons about compassion and family without being preachy.
My granddaughter immediately identified with Kelli—she has that same tender heart for animals. My grandson loved the action and humor of the turkey escape. And I appreciated the way the parents in the story actually listened to their children and were willing to change their plans.
The ending, with Tom becoming part of the family and Mr. Fillbacker joining their Thanksgiving, is just beautiful. It reminded me that holidays are about people and love, not perfect meals. We finished the book and immediately started discussing our own family traditions and what really matters.
This is a book I'll read to my grandchildren every Thanksgiving from now on. It's become our new tradition!
Perfect for: Grandparent-grandchild reading, family traditions, ages 7-12
—Margaret S., grandmother of five