The best Thanksgiving books for children

Thankful, is a beautiful list of simple, everyday things that people are thankful for, from a poet being thankful for words that rhyme to children being thankful for morning storytime. It is a great reminder that we can be thankful for the simple things in life (things that we might not usually think of when asked to name something we are grateful for). It has engaging, rhyming text that is meant to be read aloud, while young readers delight in the details of the charming illustrations.

Bear Says Thanks, is a book in a well-beloved series of Bear books. Children are always delighted to read a book with a familiar character—and they love animals! In this book, Bear wants to hold a feast for all his friends but realizes his cupboards are bare. The animal friends begin bringing delicious things, for which Bear always says “Thanks.” But he still feels badly he has nothing to share (or so he thinks). In the end, his friends remind him that he has wondrous stories to share. This playful book reminds us to appreciate more than material things, and to be grateful and say “thanks” for good friends as well as food and gifts.

Cold Turkey is a brand new book (just out in late 2021), and is great for Thanksgiving, as well as any other ch-ch-chilly time of year! Turkey is freezing and gets all bundled up. He heads out for a walk around the barnyard and ends up sharing his warm clothes with his chilly friends. This story has fun-to-read text, giggle-inducing illustrations and is a heartwarming story of kindness and generosity. (Don’t worry, Turkey ends up toasty in the end!)

Pete the Cat the First Thanksgiving is on my list because I wanted to include a book that told the story of the origins of Thanksgiving. Sometimes a historical book like that can be a dry read that young readers tune out for. But add in a familiar character like Pete the Cat (who is loved by so many kiddos), give him a starring role in the school play, and the topic becomes something that holds their attention much better.

Thanks for Nothing! Gets a big laugh on every page—and that is what makes this a big hit with young readers! If you aren’t familiar with Bruce, the grumpy bear, go meet him in his first book, Mother Bruce. In this book he is making a surprise fall feast for the mice, but, at every turn, his ingredients are ruined and when it’s time for the feast there is nothing to eat. But nevertheless, the whole crew (including a wet moose that joined the crowd), are grateful for that nothing (and a fun day)!