STAGES
Top Thanksgiving Books for Kids
Preschool
As a parent, I can tell you that finding the right Thanksgiving
books for my kids has become part of our holiday tradition. It’s about more than just reading; it’s about instilling values and sharing the rich narratives that embody the spirit of the season. Here’s my go-to list of heartwarming and insightful reads that have been a hit at our bedtime story sessions:
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"Thankful" by Eileen Spinelli
– This is a gem in our household. Its simple, rhythmic words remind us to appreciate everything from the librarian to our cozy chairs. It’s a gentle nudge towards gratitude that’s perfect for the little ones.
Thankful Hardcover – Picture Book, September 1, 2015
Celebrate everyday blessings, practice thankfulness, and observe the wonderful acts of service that keep us going each and every day. Eileen Spinelli, bestselling and award-winning
Shop"We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga" by Traci Sorell
This book is a beautiful introduction to the Cherokee tradition of gratitude. It’s been wonderful for broadening my children’s understanding of different cultural practices.
We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga Hardcover – Picture Book, September 4, 2018
2019 Sibert Honor Book 2019 Orbis Pictus Honor Book NPR’s Guide To 2018’s Great Reads 2018 Book Launch Award (SCBWI) Kirkus Reviews Best Books of 2018 School Library
Shop"Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story" by Kevin Noble Maillard
The simple story of fry bread unfolds into a deeper exploration of family and tradition, and it sparks some great conversations around our table.
Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story Hardcover – Picture Book, October 22, 2019
Winner of the 2020 Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Medal A 2020 American Indian Youth Literature Picture Book Honor Winner “A wonderful and sweet book
Shop"Turkey Trouble" by Wendi Silvano
The kids find this one hilarious. The turkey’s disguises and the ensuing antics are a light-hearted addition to the holiday that never fails to make them giggle.
Turkey Trouble Hardcover – Illustrated, January 5, 2012
Turkey is in trouble. Bad trouble. The kind of trouble where it’s almost Thanksgiving…and you’re the main course. But Turkey has an idea―what if he
Shop"The Great Turkey Race" by Steve Metzger
The story is a fun read and subtly imparts the lesson that sometimes, being together is more important than winning.
The Great Turkey Race Paperback – January 1, 2006
Cassie, Wing, and Ollie all want to be the Thanksgiving Turkey! They decide to have a contest to see which of them Farmer Joe should
Shop"Give Thanks for Each Day" by Steve Metzger
It’s a sweet reminder of daily gratitude that encourages the kids to find joy in every day, which I think is a beautiful lesson.
Give Thanks for Each Day Paperback – September 1, 2011
A cuddle-up-together paperback to be thankful for!In concrete, simple, yet touching ways, Steve Metzger shows young children all the things they can be thankful for.A
Shop"The Thankful Book" by Todd Parr
The bright illustrations catch the eye, and the message about embracing our differences and being thankful for them resonates with the kids.
The Thankful Book Hardcover – Picture Book, October 16, 2012
I am thankful for music because it makes me want to dance. I am thankful for my feet because they help me run and play.
ShopReading these books with my children not only prepares us for
Thanksgiving Day but also opens up discussions about what the
holiday truly means. It’s a cozy way to bond and a tradition that I
hope instills a lifelong love of reading and an enduring sense of
gratitude in my kids.