The Thanksgiving Story
By Alice Dalgliesh
In this richly illustrated Caldecott Honor-winning picture book, Alice Dalgliesh brings to life the fabled origin of the Thanksgiving holiday for readers of all ages. Witness the first Thanksgiving from the perspective of three pilgrim children who have travelled to the New World aboard the Mayflower. The story is accessible to children of all ages, and the illustrations by Helen Sewell are sure to capture their attention and ignite their imaginations.
Squanto's Journey: The Story of the First Thanksgiving
By Joseph Bruchac
In Squanto's Journey, Joseph Bruchac, an author of Native descent, retells the story of the first Thanksgiving from the perspective of the Pokanoket tribesman who welcomed the Pilgrims and taught them to survive the winter -- despite having once been kidnapped and sold into slavery by the English. This story is unflinching in its portrayal of the true and often fraught relationship between the Settlers and the Native tribes, making it best suited to grade schoolers. That said, it's a thoughtful and beautifully illustrated story that will lead your child to a more nuanced understanding of the history underlying our Thanksgiving traditions.
Thanksgiving Rules
By Laurie Friedman
Thanksgiving Rules by Laurie Friedman is a silly romp through Percy Isaac Gifford's ten simple rules to have the best Thanksgiving ever! The most important rule? Eat EVERYTHING you see! The eclectic illustrations by Teresa Murfin are sure to have your child cracking up on every page. This is the perfect lighthearted Thanksgiving book for children of all ages!
Thankful
By Eileen Spinelli
Thanksgiving is all about, what else, giving thanks! Thankful by Eileen Spinelli is an excellent book, written in a rhyming meter that sings when read aloud, intended to teach your children to recognize and be thankful for all the wonderful things in their lives. It's a charming, wonderfully illustrated story that encourages children of all ages to appreciate themselves and others!
Bear Says Thanks
By Karma Wilson
We love this book for the beautiful illustrations by the talented Jane Chapman that bring this heartwarming tale of friendship, festivity, and cooperation to life with adorable animals and vibrant fall colors. Bear has come up with the perfect way to say thanks—a nice big dinner! When Bear decides to throw a feast, his friends show up one by one with different platters of delicious food to share. There’s just one problem: Bear’s cupboards are bare! What is he to do? This is a fun, lighthearted story with a heartwarming moral perfect for younger readers!
