Best Children's Books for Thanksgiving
November has become one of my favorite months with the boys, not just because of cozy evenings and the last bits of sunshine in Southern California, but because we use it as a dedicated time to practice gratitude together. Ever since reading Thankful by Elaine Vickers, we’ve created an annual tradition: each day, we write something we’re grateful for on a slip of paper and staple them together into a growing thankful chain that winds its way through our home by the end of the month. It’s a simple ritual that helps the boys notice the big and small moments in their lives and reminds all of us how much there is to appreciate.
We also use November to learn about the history of how our country began, including the perspectives and experiences of the Indigenous peoples who were here long before the first Thanksgiving. These books help us hold both gratitude and truth as we move into the holiday season, something I hope becomes a meaningful tradition for our family for years to come.
Thankful by Elaine Vickers, illustrated by Samantha Cotterill
This is one I look forward to bringing out every November. It inspired an annual tradition in our home where each day, we write something we’re grateful for on a slip of paper and staple them together to form a growing gratitude chain.
Keepunumuk: Weeâchumun’s Thanksgiving Story by Danielle Greendeer, Anthony Perry, and Alexis Bunten, illustrated by Garry Meeches Sr.
A beautiful story told from an Indigenous perspective about that first celebration that some call Thanksgiving and the many other names and traditions associated with it. It’s a powerful entry point to talk with kids about whose stories get told and why.
Gracias Thanks by Pat Mora, illustrated by John Parra
A bilingual celebration of everyday gratitude — from big things to small. Each page in English and Spanish helps us practice the language of thanks while appreciating life’s simple joys and the people who fill our days.
We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga by Traci Sorell, illustrated by Frané Lessac
The word otsaliheliga (oh-jah-LEE-hay-lee-gah) is used by members of the Cherokee Nation to express gratitude. This story journeys through the seasons of Cherokee life and celebrations, offering kids a beautiful, grounded look at contemporary Cherokee culture and the practice of gratitude across the year. My kids love saying this word and learning many others throughout the book!
The Thanksgiving Bowl by Virginia Kroll, illustrated by Philomena O’Neill
When Grandma Grace’s special “I Am Thankful For” bowl blows away one windy Thanksgiving, it spends the next year helping others before finding its way home just in time for the next celebration. A sweet reminder that gratitude and generosity have a way of circling back.
Peyton Picks the Perfect Pie: A Thanksgiving Celebration by America’s Test Kitchen
This one’s Weston’s personal favorite — maybe because he’s a little picky and maybe because he loves pie. Peyton’s determination to try something new makes it a great read for hesitant eaters and a fun way to talk about being brave with new foods and experiences.
This Land by Ashley Fairbanks, illustrated by Bridget George
This engaging book invites kids to ask an essential question: Before my family lived here, who lived here? It introduces young readers to the idea of Native homelands and encourages them to learn about the communities who have cared for the land long before we arrived.
Squanto’s Journey: The Story of the First Thanksgiving by Joseph Bruchac, illustrated by Greg Shed
Told through the eyes of Squanto himself, this moving story introduces children to the history surrounding the first Thanksgiving and the Wampanoag people’s generosity. It’s a way to balance gratitude with respect and Squanto’s personal experience of our country’s beginnings.
Sophie’s Squash by Pat Zietlow Miller, illustrated by Anne Wilsdorf
My boys adore this adorable story of Sophie and her beloved squash, Bernice. It’s full of humor, heart, and a sweet lesson about change and new beginnings — making it a cozy, fall-feeling read that pairs beautifully with the themes of the season.
The Humble Pie by Jory John, illustrated by Pete Oswald
The newest story in The Food Group series, this one reminds us that humility doesn’t mean hiding. When The Humble Pie learns to celebrate himself while still lifting others up, it’s a lesson in confidence, kindness, and finding balance.
Encounter by Jane Yolen, illustrated by David Shannon
This haunting, thought-provoking story is told from the perspective of a young Taíno boy who sees ships appear on the horizon and senses danger others don’t recognize. It opens up important conversations about exploration, colonization, and what it means to listen to voices that have historically been ignored.
Turkey Bowl by Phil Bildner, illustrated by C. F. Payne
Every Thanksgiving morning, Ethan’s family gathers for their annual “Turkey Bowl,” a joyful backyard football game filled with family, fun, and a little friendly competition. We bought this for $1 on the used book shelf in our library and it quickly became a favorite in our sports-obsessed household.
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