Thanksgiving is around the corner and even though I’m a bit late, I wanted to share my favorite toddler approved Thanksgiving books!
Maybe a few might make it onto your bookshelves just in time for Thanksgiving Day!
A Very Thankful Prayer by Bonnie Rickner Jensen and Illustrated by Natalia Moore
Even if you’re not religious, this book magically teaches young children the importance of being thankful each and every day. Rhyming text, autumn themed illustrations and furry woodland creatures make this book a joy to read again and again!
This First Thanksgiving Day: A Counting Story by Laura Krauss Melmed and Illustrated by Mark Buehner
A rhyming counting story that is perfect for children learning to count that explains how the Pilgrims and Wampanoags prepared to celebrate their very first Thanksgiving. Bold and detailed illustrations help to explain the origin of Thanksgiving that will enchant young audiences.
This is the Turkey by Abby Levine and Illustrated by Paige Billin-Frye
A hilarious book told from a child’s perspective that will have the entire family in stitches. The book starts with the main character Max who picks out the turkey and the story continues to tell about his wonderful Thanksgiving day. But, when the turkey accidentally ends up in the fish tank, Max learns that being with family and friends is really what Thanksgiving is all about.
Thanks for Thanksgiving by Julie Markes and Illustrated by Doris Barrette
Julie Markes does a wonderful job of reminding us of the simple things that make Thanksgiving a special holiday. From dress up to bedtime kisses, readers learn the importance of being thankful for small daily moments that are ultimately even more special when you can share them with family.
The Great Thanksgiving Escape by Mark Fearing
A fun spin on Thanksgiving will quickly make this book a favorite for all ages. It all begins on Thanksgiving morning at Grandmas when Gavin and his cousin Rhonda decide to make a break for the backyard swing set. But, in order to get there have to dodge a hallway of aunts, drooling dogs and a gaggle of zombie teenagers. If you’re a family that has large gatherings, this book will make you laugh out loud!
This Little Turkey by Ally Fronis and Illustrated by Migy Blanco
An adorable twist to the nursery rhyme “My Little Pig” both toddlers and small babies will love this book. It follows a group of turkeys who have lots of work to do as they prepare for Thanksgiving Day and in the end, they all come together for a festive Thanksgiving feast!
Fangsgiving Written and Illustrated by Ethan Long
A fresh twist on Thanksgiving with a tale that to “die for”. This book not only celebrates the importance of gathering of family and friends, but also the importance of being thankful for good family and friends. Hilarious illustrations of spooky friends working together to pull off a Thanksgiving meal make this book lots of fun!
Thankful by Eileen Spinelli and Illustrated by Archie Preston
A sweet story written in rhyme that marks the importance of being thankful for small blessings found in daily life. Eileen Spinelli does a remarkable job of making children think about how their special talents contribute to the world around them. It’s a book that can be read year round, so that children can pause and reflect on finding small moments to be thankful for everyday.
Please let me know some of your favorite Thanksgiving books! If you happen to read any of the books on this list, make sure to tag me on Instagram or leave a comment here!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. All opinions are my own.