When his friends clue him in on why he’s not likely to see the New Year, Gus decides to head south with the other birds: “Maybe that’s why they don’t end up as dinner!” Backpack over his shoulder, he trudges south. He hops a ship bound for Antarctica, landing on Thanksgiving Day—and, one quick costume change later, he disguises himself as a penguin. “So the Pilgrims left their homes because they didn’t feel safe there, and they traveled by ship for a long, long time?” muses the head penguin. “Welcome, Pilgrim!” Sasaki’s palette and style, both reminiscent of José Aruego, suit this silly confection to a T. (Picture book. 4-7)
