12 Best & Thoughtful Thanksgiving Books for Kids

Thanksgiving is that time of the year when we gather with family and friends to give thanks for all the good things in our lives. And what better way to share the spirit of gratitude with your little ones than by reading some Thanksgiving books together? In this article, we’ve handpicked some of the best Thanksgiving books for kids to warm your hearts and inspire gratitude. So, let’s dive into the world of stories and Thanksgiving feasts!

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Discover the magic of Thanksgiving with our top 12 picks for heartwarming Thanksgiving themed books for kids!

1. “The Very First Thanksgiving Day” by Rhonda Gowler Greene

In “The Very First Thanksgiving Day,” readers follow Little Bear and his family as they prepare for and celebrate the first Thanksgiving. Rhonda Gowler Greene’s rhyming prose and Susan Gaber’s beautiful illustrations make this book a great addition to Thanksgiving books for 2nd grade list. It is a delightful journey into the holiday’s history, emphasizing the importance of gratitude, friendship, and coming together.

Lessons: This book teaches children about the historical context of Thanksgiving and the value of sharing, gratitude, and unity.

Why It’s Recommended: “The Very First Thanksgiving Day” is one of the most popular Thanksgiving books for kids. It combines history and heartwarming storytelling, making it an ideal choice for parents and educators to introduce young children to the Thanksgiving holiday.

Price: $6.99 (paperback)
Available at: Amazon
Reading Age: 3-6 years 

2. “Pete the Cat: The First Thanksgiving” by James Dean

Join the groovy Pete the Cat as he learns about the first Thanksgiving and what it means to give thanks. James Dean’s vibrant illustrations and positive message make this book an engaging read for young children. Pete the Cat’s journey highlights the importance of gratitude and kindness.

Lessons: Encourages gratitude, kindness, and the value of helping others.

Why It’s Recommended: “Pete the Cat: The First Thanksgiving” combines humor and valuable life lessons, making it an enjoyable read for kids while instilling the spirit of Thanksgiving.

Price: $6.99 (paperback)
Available at: Amazon
Reading Age: 3-6 years 

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3. “Thanksgiving Is for Giving Thanks” by Margaret Sutherland

In this heartwarming Thanksgiving book, readers follow young Tina as she discovers the true meaning of Thanksgiving. Through Tina’s experiences throughout the day, children learn that Thanksgiving is not just about delicious food but also about expressing gratitude for the blessings in their lives.

Lessons: Teaches kids about gratitude and the importance of expressing thanks.

Why It’s Recommended: “Thanksgiving Is for Giving Thanks” delivers a simple yet powerful message about gratitude, making it one of the best Thanksgiving books for kids and an excellent choice to help children understand the essence of Thanksgiving.

Price: $4.99 (paperback)
Available at: Amazon
Reading Age: 2-4 years 

4. “Turkey Trouble” by Wendi Silvano

“Turkey Trouble” is one of the best Thanksgiving books for preschoolers. It is a hilarious story that follows Turkey as he desperately tries to avoid Thanksgiving dinner. With Thanksgiving just around the corner, Turkey attempts various disguises, leading to humorous outcomes and an unexpected lesson in problem-solving.

Lessons: Encourages creativity and problem-solving skills.

Why It’s Recommended: “Turkey Trouble” combines humor and creativity to deliver an enjoyable story while subtly introducing children to the Thanksgiving holiday and the importance of creative problem-solving.

Price: $5.99 (paperback)
Available at: Amazon
Reading Age: 3-6 years 

5. “The Story of Thanksgiving” by Nancy J. Skarmeas

“The Story of Thanksgiving” provides an informative exploration of the history of Thanksgiving, from its origins to modern-day celebrations. This book offers a clear and concise account of the holiday’s historical roots, cultural traditions, and the importance of gratitude and unity.

Lessons: Teaches the historical significance of Thanksgiving and the value of cultural traditions.

Why It’s Recommended: “The Story of Thanksgiving” is an excellent choice in the pool of books about Thanksgiving for parents and educators seeking to educate children about the historical context of Thanksgiving in a simple and engaging manner.

Price: $6.28 (board book)
Available at: Amazon
Reading Age: 1-4 years 

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6. “The Berenstain Bears Give Thanks” by Jan Berenstain and Mike Berenstain

Join the beloved Berenstain Bears as they prepare for Thanksgiving. This heartwarming story teaches kids about the importance of gratitude, family, and the true meaning of Thanksgiving. With delightful illustrations, it’s a must-read for little ones during the holiday season.

Lessons: Encourages gratitude, family bonding, and understanding the spirit of Thanksgiving.

Why It’s Recommended: “The Berenstain Bears Give Thanks” captures the essence of Thanksgiving and family values, making it a cherished addition to your child’s bookshelf.

Price: $3.89 (board book)
Available at: Amazon
Reading Age: 2- 6 years 

Related Reading: Prayers for Children to Teach Them How to Be Grateful

7. “I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Pie” by Alison Jackson

In this whimsical and humorous tale, children follow the antics of an old lady who can’t seem to stop swallowing items related to Thanksgiving. As the story unfolds, it’s a delightful way to introduce young readers to the fun and chaos of Thanksgiving.

Lessons: Offers a playful take on the Thanksgiving holiday and encourages laughter and creativity.

Why It’s Recommended: “I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Pie” adds a lighthearted touch to Thanksgiving and provides kids with a memorable and amusing reading experience.

Price: $6.79 (paperback)
Available at: Amazon
Reading Age: 2- 6 years 

8. “Bear Says Thanks” by Karma Wilson

Join Bear and his friends as they come together for a Thanksgiving feast. When Bear feels like he has nothing to contribute, he learns a valuable lesson about the importance of gratitude and the joy of sharing with friends.

Lessons: Teaches the importance of gratitude, sharing, and the spirit of community.

Why It’s Recommended: “Bear Says Thanks” beautifully illustrates the significance of gratitude and the joy of friendship, making it a heartwarming read for Thanksgiving.

Price: $11.69 (Hardcover)
Available at: Amazon
Reading Age: 2- 5 years 

Related Reading: Best Thanksgiving Wishes for Kids to Wish Family Members

9. “Thanksgiving Rules” by Laurie Friedman

In “Thanksgiving Rules,” Percy Isaac Gifford shares his humorous and sometimes over-the-top rules for the perfect Thanksgiving celebration. This book combines fun illustrations with a whimsical take on Thanksgiving, capturing the excitement and chaos of the holiday.

Lessons: Encourages creativity and laughter while highlighting the importance of traditions.

Why It’s Recommended: “Thanksgiving Rules” adds a touch of humor to Thanksgiving preparations, making it a memorable and enjoyable read for kids.

Price: $296.01 (paperback)
Available at: Amazon
Reading Age: 5- 9 years 

10. “10 Fat Turkeys” by Tony Johnston

Join the countdown as 10 silly turkeys get into amusing and daring escapades in preparation for Thanksgiving. This rhyming and playful book will have kids laughing while learning to count down from 10 to 1.

Lessons: Offers a fun way to learn numbers and introduces kids to the excitement of Thanksgiving.

Why It’s Recommended: “10 Fat Turkeys” combines laughter and learning, making it a delightful choice for Thanksgiving reading for young children.

Price: $3.99 (paperback)
Available at: Amazon
Reading Age: 2- 5 years 

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11. “Fancy Nancy: Our Thanksgiving Banquet” by Jane O’Connor

Join Nancy and her family as they prepare for a fancy Thanksgiving banquet. Nancy’s enthusiasm for elegance adds a touch of glamor to the holiday while highlighting the importance of family and being thankful.

Lessons: Teaches the value of family, gratitude, and adding personal touches to celebrations.

Why It’s Recommended: “Fancy Nancy: Our Thanksgiving Banquet” combines style and substance, making it a delightful choice for kids who appreciate a bit of elegance during Thanksgiving.

Price: $4.99 (paperback)
Available at: Amazon
Reading Age: 4 –  8 years 

12. “Thanksgiving in the Woods” by Phyllis Alsdurf

Based on a true story, “Thanksgiving in the Woods” follows a family’s unique tradition of celebrating Thanksgiving in the woods with friends and neighbors. This heartwarming book emphasizes community, togetherness, and the beauty of nature.

Lessons: Teaches the importance of community, nature appreciation, and creating cherished traditions.

Why It’s Recommended: “Thanksgiving in the Woods” showcases the beauty of nature, the importance of community, and the creation of lasting traditions, making it a heartwarming choice for Thanksgiving reading.

Price: $10.39 (Hardcover)
Available at: Amazon
Reading Age: 2 –  6 years 

Related Reading: Best Thanksgiving Poems for Kids to Read Aloud

Conclusion

These Thanksgiving books for kids offer wonderful ways to explore the Thanksgiving spirit with your children. Whether you’re sharing laughs, learning about gratitude, or discovering new traditions, these stories are valuable companions for the holiday season. So, as you search for the perfect children’s Thanksgiving books to read, remember that these Thanksgiving-themed books are here to bring joy and meaning to your celebrations. Enjoy reading, and have a memorable Thanksgiving with your little ones!

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