Thanksgiving is about more than just the turkey. Here are ten recommended books for kids ages 0-9 that celebrate friendship, generosity and gratitude. Read these stories to the children in your life to help them see what the spirit of Thanksgiving is really all about. Compiled by Jax4Kids.
Llama Llama Gives Thanks
By Anna Dewdney. In the wonderfully rythmic style for which Anna Dewdney is known, the ever-popular Llama Llama learns to give thanks not just on Thanksgiving, but all year long. (Ages 0-3)
Otis Gives Thanks
By Loren Long. Otis has so much to bed grateful for – his home on the farm, the rain and sun that grow the crops, fun games and hard work, and most of all, friendship and love. A lovely introduction to developing an attitude of gratitude for toddlers and preschoolers. (Ages 0-3)
Thanks from the Very Hungry Caterpillar
By Eric Carle. “Thanks for showing me… to be KIND to every creature, to CARE for the trees and sky and oceans, to be curious, gentle, and BRAVE.” With brilliantly colored illustrations and a sweet message, this book is a beautiful way to show thanks to loved ones. (Ages 2-5)
Thankful
By Eileen Spinelli, illustrated by Archie Preston. Two children dress up as adults and express their thanks for things like light, color, plants, and rhyming words. This charming book encourages kids to be thankful for even the smallest blessings. (Ages 4-7)
The Berenstain Bears Say Please and Thank You
By Jan and Mike Berenstain. My kids love the Berenstain bears and hang on every word of their books. In this one, our favorite bear family learns about good manners, gratitude, and being polite. (Ages 4-8)
Thanks a Million
By Nikki Grimes, illustrated by Cozbi A. Cabrera. With 16 poems on thankfulness, kids will learn how it feels to be thankful and how to express gratitude to others. This is a great reminder of how meaningful a simple “thank you” can be. (Ages 4-8)
Ten Thank-You Letters
By Daniel Kirk. While Pig writes one long thank-you note to his grandmother for a birthday gift, Rabbit quickly writes ten letters to the people he wants to thank. This humorous picture book helps kids understand the value of a thank-you note. (Ages 5-8)
Bear Says Thanks
By Karma Wilson, illustrated by Jane Chapman. Bear is having a feast for all of his friends, but his cupboards are empty. Bear thanks each friend as they show up, bringing food with them. This warm and inviting book uses themes of friendship and generosity to illustrate good manners. (Ages 4-8)
The Thank You Book
By Mo Willems. In Piggy and Gerald’s final book, Piggy makes an effort to thank everyone, but Gerald is worried she’ll forget someone important. With classic Mo Willems humor, Piggy and Gerald teach a valuable lesson while saying goodbye. (Ages 4-8)
Gracias/Thanks
By Pat Mora, illustrated by John Parra. Written in both Spanish and English, this humorous book follows a day in the life of a young boy. He thanks the sun, the bees that don’t sting him, and the crickets that sing him to sleep at night. It’s funny, heartfelt, and sweet. (Ages 5-9)
