Now that Thanksgiving is right around the corner, it seems like the perfect time to share some of our family’s favorite Thanksgiving books! There are so many reasons to read Thanksgiving books with your children! I like to create memories of reading good books together around every holiday. Thanksgiving is no exception. But the main reason is that it is important to me that our boys do not think that Thanksgiving is merely about feasting, family, and fun. Yes, that is a part of today’s Thanksgiving, but the true reason we celebrate Thanksgiving is so much deeper! Do your children know why Thanksgiving is celebrated?
Why We Celebrate Thanksgiving:
I want to be certain that my children know exactly why Thanksgiving is celebrated. Today, we remember what is often referred to as “The First Thanksgiving”. This is when the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag shared an autumn harvest and celebration of thanks in 1621. We celebrate Thanksgiving in remembrance of how God allowed the Pilgrims to be helped through the love and kindness of the Wampanoag people. The Pilgrims most likely would have all starved to death without the care of the Wampanoag. They taught the Pilgrims everything that they needed to know in order to survive in a new land which they knew nothing about. It is important to me that my children know about the Wampanoag culture, as well as the Pilgrims. In this selection of favorite Thanksgiving books, I have tried to find a balance between books of the Pilgrims, Wampanoag, and fun modern-day Thanksgiving books. I hope you are able to read all these beautiful Thanksgiving children’s books with the little ones in your life!
Thanksgiving Books to Read Aloud
We enjoy these books because they evoke every emotion. From the hilarious Cranberry Thanksgiving to the emotionally stirring story of Squanto’s Journey. Get ready to enjoy some wholesome books that you will want to read together year after year – I know we do! I will be keeping these books forever, and hopefully, I will get to read them to my grandchildren one day. I love that these books are not too long, and are filled with delightful illustrations. Here are some of the best Thanksgiving books to read aloud, perfect for creating those cozy, festive moments:
Indigenous Peoples Books:
1. People of the Breaking Day by Marcia Sewall
The detailed illustrations and beautiful storyline of this book truly bring the Wampanoag culture to life. We found this to be very enlightening and emotionally moving. Long before the Pilgrim’s landed in Plimoth, the Wampanoag people lived in harmony with nature and its changing seasons.
2. Squanto's Journey by Joseph Bruchac
Is the story of the first Thanksgiving as told by Squanto. He taught the Pilgrims to plant, hunt, fish, and ultimately how to survive in this new land. Without him, the first Thanksgiving would have not been possible. And almost 400 years later, we remember the time when these two peoples celebrated the bountiful harvest in the spirit of peace and brotherhood.
3. Giving Thanks by Chief Jake Swamp
Is a Native American good morning message based on the Thanksgiving Address, which is an ancient message of peace and appreciation of Mother Earth and all her inhabitants. This book is a beautiful, moving message with wonderful illustrations on every page.
4. Keepunumuk by Danielle Greendeer, Anthony Perry, & Alexis Bunten
Is the story of the first Thanksgiving from a Native American perspective. It is told from the perspective of a grandmother to her grandchildren. Colorful full-page illustrations will keep even the youngest listeners interested. Bonus: you will get to learn some Wampanoag words as well!
5. Tapenum’s Day by Kate Waters
A day-in-the-life book of a Wampanoag boy. It is filled with re-enactment photos of Tapenum’s day to bring the story to life. A great to help your child see what it was like to be a Wampanoag boy.
6. Squanto and the Miracle of Thanksgiving by Eric Metaxas
Tells the inspiring story of Squanto, the Native American who played a pivotal role in helping the Pilgrims survive their first harsh winter in the New World. Highlighting themes of forgiveness, providence, and the true spirit of Thanksgiving through Squanto’s extraordinary journey.
7. The Very First Americans by Cara Ashrose
This book introduces young readers to the diverse cultures and lifestyles of Native American tribes before the arrival of European settlers. The book uses engaging illustrations and simple text to highlight the richness and variety of Native American heritage.
Pilgrim Books:
8. The Pilgrims of Plimoth by Marcia Sewall
This book gives insight into what the daily life of the Pilgrims was like. It does well depicting the sickness, hardships, and sorrow that were a constant part of those early days. Wonderful illustrations bring the story to life and help connect children to their way of living.
9. The Thanksgiving Story by Alice Dalgliesh
This book has stood the test of time. It is a simple and delightful telling of the Thanksgiving story, which begins with Pilgrims voyage across the Atlantic to the fall harvest feast of 1621. Vintage illustrations are scattered throughout the book.
10. Three Young Pilgrims by Cheryl Harness
This book tells the story of the Allerton family’s first year in Plimoth Colony. Great attention to detail is given to the story and illustrations of this book. (Note: if you have a child who is sensitive to death, the mother of the three young children dies in the story.) After all of their hardships, they make it through that first year with the help of Samoset and Squanto!
11. Sarah Morton’s Day by Kate Waters
A day-in-the-life book of a Pilgrim girl. It is filled with re-enactment photos of Sarah’s day to bring the story to life. A great way to help your child see what it was like to be a Pilgrim girl.
12. Samuel Eaton’s Day by Kate Waters
A day-in-the-life book of a Pilgrim boy. It is filled with re-enactment photos of Samuel’s day to bring the story to life. This book is a great way to help your child to see what it was like to be a Pilgrim boy.
13. This Is the Feast by Diane Z. Shore
A vibrant retelling of the first Thanksgiving, rich with rhythmic text and lively illustrations. The book captures the spirit of gratitude and community that defined the Pilgrims’ celebration.
14. The First Thanksgiving by Jean Craighead George
An insightful portrayal of the Pilgrims’ journey to America and their eventual celebration of the first Thanksgiving. Through compelling narrative and vivid illustrations, the book brings to life the historical significance and spirit of cooperation that marked this important event.
15. Pilgrim Cat by Carol Peacock
Tells the heartwarming tale of a young girl named Faith and her journey to America aboard the Mayflower with her cat, Pounce. Through Faith’s eyes, readers experience the challenges and triumphs of the Pilgrims’ first year in the New World, highlighting themes of courage and companionship.
16. The Boy Who Fell Off the Mayflower by P.J. Lynch
Tells the story of John Howland, a young passenger on the Mayflower, who survives falling overboard and goes on to experience the hardships and triumphs of settling in the New World. The book combines lush illustrations with a gripping narrative, bringing a unique perspective to this historic journey.
17. On the Mayflower by Kate Waters
An immersive look into the journey of the Pilgrims through the eyes of two young passengers, John and Elizabeth. The book combines vivid photographs with engaging narrative to bring history to life, making the Pilgrims’ voyage relatable for children.
18. N.C. Wyeth's Pilgrims by N.C. Wyeth
This is beautifully illustrated account of the Pilgrims’ journey to the New World and their early experiences in America. The book combines Wyeth’s stunning artwork with a rich narrative, bringing to life the historical significance and spirit of the Pilgrims’ adventure.
19. Giving Thanks: The 1621 Harvest Feast by Kate Waters
This immersive book shows the first Thanksgiving through the perspectives of Dancing Moccasins (a Wampanoag boy) and Resolved White (an English boy). Combining historical accuracy with engaging photographs, it offers a unique glimpse into the shared harvest celebration between the Pilgrims and Wampanoag people.
General Thanksgiving Books:
20. Sharing the Bread by Pat Zietlow Miller
This adorable old fasioned story shows how each person in the family has a task to make Thanksgiving dinner happen. Everyone has a job to do, and they all work together to make and share in their Thanksgiving spread. The illustrations are vivid and adorable in this book.
21. Cranberry Thanksgiving by Wende & Harry Devlin
A rollicking story of how Maggie and her grandmother invite a mysterious newcomer and old Mr. Whiskers (a seafaring captain) to celebrate their favorite holiday: Thanksgiving! Grandmother serves an exquisite feast and ends it with her famous secret recipe of Cranberry Bread. Finally, the recipe is included so you can make it with your child for some extra seasonal fun.
22. A Turkey for Thanksgiving by Eve Bunting
An animal tale of Thanksgiving dinner. Mr. and Mrs. Moose host Thanksgiving dinner, but they do not have a turkey. Everyone knows that you must have a turkey for Thanksgiving! So, Mr. Moose sets out to make Mrs. Moose’s Thanksgiving dream come true. And as for Mr. Turkey….. he’s in for a big surprise!!
23. Thanksgiving at the Tappletons' by Eileen Spinelli
This hilarious tale of a family trying to salvage their Thanksgiving dinner after a series of mishaps. The story beautifully underscores the importance of family and togetherness, even when things don’t go as planned.
24. An Old Fashioned Thanksgiving by Louisa May Alcott
An adorable illustrated and adapted edition of the original tale by Alcott. This story celebrates the the simple joys of life as seven children prepare the Thanksgiving meal by themselves.
25. Thanksgiving is Here by Diane Goode
This is a delightful celebration of a bustling family’s Thanksgiving Day, capturing the chaos and joy as relatives gather and feast. Through vibrant illustrations and lively narrative, the book beautifully conveys the warmth and togetherness of Thanksgiving.
26. Over the River and Through the Woods by Lydia Maria Child
A beautfuful illustrasted edition of the clasic Thanksgiving poem celebrating the joy and anticipation of traveling to grandmother’s house for Thanksgiving. The charming verses and nostalgic imagery capture the excitement of family gatherings and holiday traditions.
27. We Give Thanks by Cynthia Rylant
Is a is a heartfelt celebration of gratitude and the simple joys of life. The book beautifully captures the essence of being thankful for everyday blessings, accompanied by charming illustrations that bring the message to life.
28. Thankful by Eileen Spinelli
An adorable book with an inspiring message of thankfulness. The simple text and whimsical illustrations celebrate the everday blessing found in daily living.
29. Give Thanks to the Lord by Karma Wilson
This sweet book celebrates the season of Thanksgiving through a gentle rhyme and soft illustrations.Follow along as the family they celebrates Thanksgiving with gratitude and love. Iinspired by Psalm 92, it highlights the importance of giving thanks for everyday blessings.
30. In November by Cynthia Rylant
This gentle story describes the month of November and all the changes it brings as autumn sets in. Beautiful illustrations bring this story of the sights, sounds, and scents of this special time of year. A perfect read for appreciating the simple joys of November.
31. Mary's First Thanksgiving by Kathy-Jo Wargin
This is a touching story about a young girl named Mary, who learns the true meaning of Thanksgiving from her parents. As her father retells the legend of the five kernels of corn, Mary discovers the importance of gratitude and the value of family traditions.
32. Giving Thanks Edited by Katherine Paterson
A lovely compilation of poems, prayers, and praise songs of Thanksgiving that will bless your soul. Each page is enhanced by beautiful cut-paper illustrations for more than fifty graces. This is a stunning and unique book that will bring reflection and gratitude to the heart.
“The big kitchen was a jolly place just now, for in the great fireplace roared a cheerful fire; on the walls hung garlands of dried apples, onions, and corn; up a loft from the beams shone crook-necked squashes, juicy hams, and dried venison . . . Savory smells were in the air; on the crane hung steaming kettles; and down among the red embers copper saucepans simmered, all suggestive of some approaching feast.” ~ An Old Fashioned Thanksgiving, Louisa May Alcott
