Harriet Beecher Stowe & Louisa May Alcott 
Thanksgiving Tales 

Thanksgiving Tales is a richly diverse anthology that weaves together the thematic tapestry of gratitude, community, and familial bonds through a variety of literary styles. The collection showcases the breadth and versatility of its contributors, ranging from the poignant realism of George Eliot to the whimsical enchantments of Andrew Lang, and the feminist narratives of Charlotte Perkins Gilman. Echoing through these pages are not only the historical and cultural nuances of Thanksgiving but also the universal human experiences of joy, sorrow, and hope. This anthology stands out for its capacity to blend the traditional with the innovative, offering readers standout pieces that capture the essence of Thanksgiving while pushing the boundaries of conventional storytelling. The contributing authors and editors of Thanksgiving Tales are luminaries from different corners of the literary world, each bringing their unique voice to the theme of thanksgiving. Spanning the 19th and early 20th centuries, these authors were pivotal in shaping literary discourse through their contributions to cultural, social, and literary movements of their time. From Harriet Beecher Stowe’s abolitionist narratives to Lucy Maud Montgomery’s explorations of identity and place, this anthology encapsulates a period rich in historical upheaval and transformation. The converging voices in this collection not only celebrate the spirit of Thanksgiving but also reflect on the complexities of human experience, making it a microcosm of societal values and struggles. Thanksgiving Tales offers readers an unparalleled journey through the eyes of some of literature’s most treasured authors. It is more than just a collection; it is an invitation to explore the multifaceted nature of Thanksgiving, from its historical roots to its personal significance in individual lives. This anthology is an essential read for those who seek to understand the depth of thanksgiving beyond the holiday, offering educational value, a breadth of insights, and a stimulating dialogue between diverse literary styles and themes. It is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling to unite, inspire, and enlighten.

About the author

Harriet Beecher Stowe (1811–1896) was an influential American author and abolitionist, celebrated for her novel ‘Uncle Tom’s Cabin’ (1852), a work which galvanized anti-slavery sentiment in the United States and abroad. Born in Litchfield, Connecticut, to Lyman Beecher, a prominent Congregationalist minister, and Roxana Foote, Stowe was the seventh of thirteen children. The Beecher family was at the forefront of various reform movements, including abolitionism, which clearly influenced Stowe’s writing and beliefs. Stowe’s education at the progressive Hartford Female Seminary, founded by her sister Catharine, equipped her with a strong intellectual grounding uncommon for women of her time. She married Calvin Ellis Stowe, a theologian and widower, in 1836, and together they had seven children, their domestic and financial challenges often coloring her work. Stowe wrote over 30 books, including novels, three travel memoirs, and collections of articles and letters. Despite the prolific bibliography, it is ‘Uncle Tom’s Cabin’ that remains her most recognized and impactful work, credited with laying the groundwork for the Civil War. It is important to note that her works often depicted the complexities of race, gender, and class in the 19th century. Though ‘Thanksgiving Tales’ may not carry the same historical weight as her antislavery writings, it nonetheless offers an insight into Stowe’s literary talents and her ability to capture the cultural essence of her time. Her literary style combined emotional narrative with social criticism, aiming to effect moral and social change through literature.