The Great Thanksgiving Escape

Gavin is the picture of irritation after his parents dump him with a bunch of drooling, toy-munching toddlers while waiting for “turkey time” at Grandma’s house. Luckily, he finds a partner in crime in cousin Rhonda, and they make their way past several holiday hazards in order to reach the outdoor swing set. Fearing revels in his portraits of cinematically exaggerated horrors like the “Hall of Aunts!” (“We’ll be pinched and smothered for sure!” cries Rhonda) and a basement full of teenage “zombies” staring at their digital devices. Rhonda’s advice to Gavin—“Sometimes you have to make your own fun”—will serve readers well on Thanksgiving Day or any time of year. Ages 5–8. Agent: Sean McCarthy, Sean McCarthy Literary Agency. (Sept.)