Over the River and Through the Wood facts for kids
Over the river, and through the wood,
To Grandfather's house we go;
the horse knows the way to carry the sleigh
through the white and drifted snow.
Over the river, and through the wood,
to Grandfather's house away!
We would not stop for doll or top,
for 'tis Thanksgiving Day.
Over the river, and through the wood—
oh, how the wind does blow!
It stings the toes and bites the nose
as over the ground we go.
Over the river, and through the wood—
and straight through the barnyard gate,
We seem to go extremely slow,
it is so hard to wait!
Over the river, and through the wood—
When Grandmother sees us come,
She will say, "O, dear, the children are here,
bring a pie for everyone."
Over the river, and through the wood—
now Grandmother's cap I spy!
Hurrah for the fun! Is the pudding done?
Hurrah for the pumpkin pie!
"Over the River and Through the Wood" is a very famous poem. It is often sung as a song, especially around Thanksgiving. The poem was written by Lydia Maria Child. It first appeared in her book Flowers for Children in 1844. The original title was "The New-England Boy's Song About Thanksgiving Day".
About the Poem
This poem is well-known for its opening line. It describes a fun trip to a grandparent's house. The poem has a happy, bouncy rhythm. It makes you feel like you are on the journey too.
Its Popularity
Boston College says this poem is Lydia Maria Child's most famous work. The words of the poem have changed a little over time. This happened especially when people started setting it to music.
Childhood Memories
The poem gets its happy feeling from Child's own childhood. She remembered visiting her grandfather's house for Thanksgiving. The poem brings back simple, joyful family holiday moments.
Author's Purpose
Lydia Maria Child was known for her strong beliefs. She supported ending slavery. However, she kept these ideas out of this book. She wanted to avoid arguments and sell more books. Flowers for Children has only two stories about race. Even these stories do not directly talk about prejudice. Instead, this poem focuses on the happy feelings of a family holiday.
Images for kids
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"Grandfather's House" also known as the Paul Curtis House in Medford, MA.
