Every year, I come across new and fantastic Thanksgiving books. This list is a collection of both new and old favorites that we’ve discovered. Some are in our own personal library and some have been checked out from our public library. And, there are some that really need to be added to our personal library.
Here are some of our favorite Thanksgiving books. What are yours?
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Books about the history of Thanksgiving
The First Thanksgiving by Jean Craighead George. George’s skillful storytelling brings to life the first Thanksgiving in such a way that your kids will be hooked. The illustrations are beautiful and it’s a great overall historical reference. Perfect for your elementary-aged kids.
If You Were At The First Thanksgiving by Anne Kamma. This is another good historical choice. The book is lengthy and better-suited for an elementary-aged crowd. But, it is packed full of interesting facts and stories. This is a great choice for anyone interested in the history of the first Thanksgiving.
P Is for Pilgrim: A Thanksgiving Alphabet by Carol Crane. Yes, it’s an alphabet books, but it’s definitely not your average preschool alphabet book. I would argue that this is another good one for your elementary-aged kids. Learn details about the pilgrims and the first Thanksgiving by following the alphabet. I learned so many things from this book.
Thank You, Sarah by Laurie Halse Anderson. I’ll confess. I never knew the name of Sarah Hale before picking up this book. It’s a delightful book that teaches you all about this remarkable lady and her quest to make Thanksgiving into a national holiday. Learn all about determination, the power of writing, and the history of how our modern day Thanksgiving came to be.
Balloons over Broadway: The True Story of the Puppeteer of Macy’s Parade by Melissa Sweet. Do you watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade every year? We try to catch it as much as we can. This book tells the story of the parade and the remarkable man who created their famous flying balloons. I love this book!
More fun Thanksgiving books
The Thanksgiving Door by Debby Atwell. After burning their Thanksgiving dinner, Anne and Ed go out to a restaurant and end up guests at an immigrant family’s Thanksgiving feast. They learn about friendship and generosity all while experiencing one amazing Thanksgiving dinner.
A Turkey for Thanksgiving by Eve Bunting. This is probably my favorite book on this whole list. Mr. Moose promises his wife a turkey for Thanksgiving. After a romp through the woods to find a turkey, Mr. Moose finally finds one and brings him home. Only instead of finding himself served for dinner, Turkey discovers that he is the guest of honor.
Thanksgiving Is for Giving Thanks by Margaret Sutherland. This sweet book is a good starting point for teaching your kids about gratitude. I love this book and love the concept.
The Berenstain Bears Thanksgiving Blessings by Mike Berenstain. This is my favorite choice for anyone looking for a faith-based book about Thanksgiving and giving thanks. Join along as the Berenstain Bears travel to Grandma’s house and talk about everything they are grateful for.
Over the River and Through the Wood: The New England Boy’s Song About Thanksgiving Day, illustrated by Matt Tavares. I dare you now to sing along while reading this book. This classic song is paired by beautiful illustrations. It’s a fun read, especially if you’re heading off to the grandparents for Thanksgiving.
Happy Reading!
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These are great choices for books for Thanksgiving! I just wanted to let you know that I have a kids activities submission site (Simply Creative Kids) and I am linking to this post if you don't mind. You are welcome to submit your projects to my site if you'd like.