16 Best Thanksgiving Read Alouds to Celebrate with Kids

I love how Thanksgiving read alouds can bring the spirit of the holiday right into our living room.

There’s something magical about gathering together with my child to share stories that celebrate gratitude, family, and the joy of togetherness.

These Thanksgiving books not only spark our imagination but also help us reflect on the important values of kindness and community.

Whether it’s the laughter from a silly turkey tale or the warmth of a heartfelt story, each book adds a special touch to our Thanksgiving celebrations, creating memories we’ll cherish long after the last slice of pie is gone.

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Best Thanksgiving Books for Kids

Thanksgiving read alouds are a fantastic way to celebrate the holiday with your little ones.

These stories not only highlight the traditions and history behind Thanksgiving but also encourage discussions about gratitude and togetherness.

In our home, reading aloud during this time has become a simple yet meaningful tradition.

It’s an opportunity to connect, share some laughs, and even dive into important themes without feeling heavy-handed. Plus, it’s a great way to support literacy skills and foster a love for reading.

If you’re looking for the best Thanksgiving gifts for kids, these books make thoughtful choices that can spark joy and create lasting memories during the holiday season.

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Turkey! by Lucille Colandro

This book is a playful take on the classic nursery rhyme "There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly."

In this Thanksgiving-themed story, the old lady swallows a variety of foods and objects in preparation for a feast.

A Plump and Perky Turkey by Teresa Bateman

In this book, the residents of Squawk Valley are in search of a turkey to feature in their annual Thanksgiving Day parade.

When they come across a clever turkey who suggests that he could be their model for the parade float, they think they have found the perfect solution. But will the turkey outsmart them in the end?

The Berenstain Bears Give Thanks

In this classic Berenstain Bears book, Mama Bear teaches her cubs the importance of gratitude and giving thanks.

The book explores the theme of thankfulness through the Bears' preparations for a Thanksgiving feast and their reflections on all the things they are grateful for in their lives.

Gobble Gobble Mr. Wobble by Becky Cummings

This fun and silly book follows the adventures of Mr. Wobble, a turkey who struggles to keep his balance as he searches for food.

The book features colorful illustrations and playful language that young readers are sure to enjoy.

Thank You, Sarah: The Woman Who Saved Thanksgiving by Laurie Halse Anderson

In this historical fiction book, readers are introduced to Sarah Hale, the woman who worked tirelessly to make Thanksgiving a national holiday.

The book explores the historical context and political struggles that led to the establishment of Thanksgiving as a national holiday.

Balloons over Broadway: The True Story of the Puppeteer of Macy’s Parade by Melissa Sweet

This book tells the inspiring true story of Tony Sarg, the puppeteer who created the first giant helium balloons for Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

The book features colorful illustrations, photographs, and collages, and offers an engaging and informative look at the history of one of America's most beloved holiday traditions.

This is one of our favorite picture books about Thanksgiving.

Squanto’s Journey: The Story of the First Thanksgiving

Told from Squanto’s perspective, this historical picture book shares the story of how he helped the Pilgrims survive their first year in the New World. It’s a thoughtful and respectful introduction to the Native American side of the Thanksgiving story, making it a valuable read for kids.

I Am Thankful: A Thanksgiving Book for Kids by Sheri Wall

This children's book follows a young girl as she reflects on all the things she is thankful for during the Thanksgiving holiday.

The book uses colorful illustrations and simple language to help young readers understand the importance of gratitude and appreciation.

Thanksgiving in the Woods by Phyllis Alsdurf

This picture book tells the heartwarming story of a family's annual tradition of celebrating Thanksgiving in the woods with their friends and loved ones.

The book highlights the importance of community and togetherness during the holiday season.

Turkey Trouble by Wendi Silvano

Turkey Trouble is a humorous and entertaining Thanksgiving story about a clever turkey who tries to avoid being the main course for dinner.

The book uses clever wordplay and fun illustrations to keep young readers engaged and entertained.

Thanksgiving on Thursday by Mary Pope Osborne

Part of the popular Magic Tree House series, Thanksgiving on Thursday takes readers on a historical adventure with main characters Jack and Annie as they travel back in time to the first Thanksgiving with the Pilgrims and Native Americans.

The book combines fun and educational elements to teach young readers about the origins of the holiday.

‘Twas the Night Before Thanksgiving by Dav Pilkey

Twas the Night Before Thanksgiving is a playful and engaging Thanksgiving story about a group of children who save a group of turkeys from becoming Thanksgiving dinner.

The book uses humorous rhymes and silly illustrations to keep young readers entertained while also conveying a message of compassion and empathy toward animals.

How to Catch a Turkey

A hilarious book that tells the story of a group of kids who attempt to catch a turkey for Thanksgiving but end up learning valuable lessons about gratitude and friendship.

With its engaging narrative and whimsical illustrations, it makes a perfect Thanksgiving read-aloud, promoting the spirit of togetherness and thankfulness in a fun and entertaining way.

What Was the First Thanksgiving? by Joan Holub

This nonfiction book explores the history of Thanksgiving and its origins in the United States.

The book examines the story of the Pilgrims, their arrival in the New World, and their interactions with the Native Americans who lived there. It also discusses how the holiday has evolved over time.

The Story of the Pilgrims by Katharine Ross

The Story of the Pilgrims tells the story of the Pilgrims' journey from England to the New World and their struggles to establish a new colony in Plymouth, Massachusetts.

The book explores the challenges the Pilgrims faced, including harsh weather, disease, and food shortages, and highlights their determination and resilience.

The First Thanksgiving by Linda Hayward

The First Thanksgiving is a nonfiction book that tells the story of the Pilgrims' first Thanksgiving celebration in 1621.

The book explores the Pilgrims' relationships with the Native Americans, the foods they shared at the feast, and the traditions that have evolved around Thanksgiving over time.

Additional Thanksgiving Activities

Incorporate these fall read alouds into your Thanksgiving homeschool activities and enjoy some quality time together this November.

Don’t forget to grab our free Thanksgiving bookmarks to color, these are a perfect addition to your reading sessions! You can also have fun with the whole family using our Thanksgiving scattergories printables and exciting Thanksgiving scavenger hunt clues.

I’d love to hear about your favorite children’s books for Thanksgiving! Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Last Updated on 8 April 2025 by Clare Brown

Best Thanksgiving Books for Kids

Additional Thanksgiving Activities

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