I love holiday books! Here are some suggestions to read with your child this Thanksgiving season. It is important for kids to read books about holidays to make some text to self connections while also seeing how others celebrate. You can look for these at your local library, and I also recommend having a few that you own and can bring out year after year.
For toddlers and preschoolers: Pookie’s Thanksgiving by Sandra Boynton. My girls adore all of the Little Pookie books, and this one is no exception. You’re my Little Pumpkin Pie by Nicola Edwards is a sweet board book that had cut out shapes and interactive elements. We love all the books we have read in the You’re my Little series. Thankful Thanksgiving by Deb Adamson is a fun rhyming board book that is an excellent introduction to the concept of being thankful.
For preschoolers: A Very Thankful Prayer by Bonnie Jensen is a story that teaches kids all about how to pray for a thankful heart and notice all the good things around them! God Gave us Thankful Hearts by Lisa Bergren is part of the bestselling God Gave us series, and in this one, Lil Pup learns all about what it means to be thankful for what God has given us. I am Thankful by Sheri Wall is a story that follows three different families and shows how they celebrate Thanksgiving.
For elementary aged kids: Turkey Bowl by Phil Bidner is a story about nine year old Ethan who is FINALLY old enough to play in his family’s annual football game on Thanksgiving, but a blizzard comes and cancels the entire event. This story has a heartfelt surprise, and is great reminder of the importance of building traditions. Thank You, Sarah by Laurie Anderson is the true story of Sarah Hale who helped make Thanksgiving a national holiday; this delightful story is funny but also shows kids the importance of using your voice and persisting. Magic Tree House: Thanksgiving on Thursday by Mary Pope Osborne is part of the beloved Magic Tree House series, and in this one Jack and Annie travel back in time to the first Thanksgiving.
You can also check out my recent Thanksgiving Library Book Haul for even more ideas!
Erin Pate is a former elementary school teacher and mom to two littles who has a passion for sharing the love of reading. Follow her on Instagram @booksandsmiles for book recommendations, reading tips and learning ideas for the littles in your life.