Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and celebrating traditions—and what better way to get little ones excited about the holiday than through books? Preschoolers love stories filled with colorful illustrations, engaging characters, and simple messages that capture the magic of Thanksgiving. Whether you’re looking for fun tales about silly turkeys, heartfelt lessons about thankfulness, or introductions to the history of the holiday, this list of the 30 best Thanksgiving books for preschoolers has something for every young reader. Gather your kids, cozy up, and explore these delightful stories that will make this Thanksgiving holiday season extra special!
1. Turkey Trouble by Wendi Silvano
Turkey is in big trouble—Thanksgiving is coming, and he’s the main course! Determined to avoid his fate, he tries out a series of hilarious disguises to hide his identity. Kids will love the humor and clever twists in this story.
2. Llama Llama Gives Thanks by Anna Dewdney
Llama Llama and his family prepare for Thanksgiving, learning about gratitude and family traditions. With simple rhymes and warm illustrations, this book is perfect for introducing young readers to the holiday. My little girl loves the illustrations of this book.
3. Bear Says Thanks by Karma Wilson
Bear wants to host a feast for his friends, but his cupboards are bare. Luckily, his friends each bring something to share, teaching children about generosity and gratitude. This cozy story is paired with beautiful illustrations.
4. There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Turkey! by Lucille Colandro
This whimsical story follows an old lady who swallows all kinds of Thanksgiving-themed items, including a turkey! The absurdity and rhyming text will keep preschoolers laughing and engaged.
5. Thanksgiving Is for Giving Thanks by Margaret Sutherland
This heartwarming story teaches children the true meaning of Thanksgiving: giving thanks. Through simple examples, it shows how we can be grateful for family, friends, and everyday blessings. An old-fashioned Thanksgiving story.
6. The Night Before Thanksgiving by Natasha Wing
Modeled after the classic poem “The Night Before Christmas,” this fun book captures the excitement of preparing for Thanksgiving. Kids will relate to the anticipation and chaos of the big day.
7. How to Catch a Turkey by Adam Wallace
When a turkey escapes during a school Thanksgiving play, a hilarious chase ensues. This fun and action-packed story is perfect for preschoolers who love adventure and silliness.
8. Gracias The Thanksgiving Turkey by Joy Cowley
Miguel receives a turkey named Gracias as a gift, and the two form a special bond. This heartwarming story blends themes of gratitude, love, and multicultural traditions.
9. A Turkey for Thanksgiving by Eve Bunting
Mr. and Mrs. Moose want a turkey at their Thanksgiving dinner—not to eat, but as a guest! This story’s gentle humor and message of inclusion make it a wonderful holiday read.
10. Pete the Cat: The First Thanksgiving by James Dean
Join Pete the Cat as he reenacts the story of the first Thanksgiving with his class. This engaging story blends fun with history and includes lift-the-flap surprises for little readers.
11. Five Silly Turkeys by Salina Yoon
This interactive counting book features five quirky turkeys doing silly things. The bold illustrations and rhyming text make it a hit with preschoolers.
12. 10 Fat Turkeys by Tony Johnston
With playful rhymes and humorous illustrations, this book follows ten turkeys causing all kinds of trouble. It’s a great way to introduce counting while having fun.
13. Squanto’s Journey: The Story of the First Thanksgiving by Joseph Bruchac
This book tells the story of Squanto, a Native American who helped the Pilgrims survive and thrive in their new home. It’s an engaging and educational perspective on the history of Thanksgiving.
14. The Thankful Book by Todd Parr
Todd Parr’s colorful illustrations and simple text encourage kids to appreciate the little things in life. From family and friends to special moments, this book is a celebration of gratitude.
15. Over the River and Through the Wood by Lydia Maria Child
This beautifully illustrated rendition of the classic Thanksgiving poem takes readers on a journey to Grandmother’s house. It’s a delightful mix of tradition and adventure.
16. A Plump and Perky Turkey by Teresa Bateman
The townsfolk want a turkey for their Thanksgiving feast, but the clever turkey outsmarts them at every turn. This rhyming tale is full of humor and charm.
17. Cranberry Thanksgiving by Wende Devlin
Set in New England, this story features Grandmother’s famous cranberry bread recipe and a lesson about judging others. It’s a timeless Thanksgiving classic with a surprise ending.
18. Thank You, Thanksgiving by David Milgrim
A young girl gives thanks for everything she encounters on her way to the store. This simple yet meaningful story shows that gratitude can be found in the little things.
19. The Story of the Pilgrims by Katharine Ross
This engaging introduction to the Pilgrims’ journey and the first Thanksgiving is perfect for preschoolers. The story is told in a simple, easy-to-understand way with vivid illustrations.
20. Fall Feast Fun by Martha E. H. Rustad
This book introduces preschoolers to the traditions and foods of Thanksgiving with colorful illustrations and simple language. It’s a great choice for younger readers.
21. Celebrate Thanksgiving by Deborah Heiligman
This nonfiction book explains the history and traditions of Thanksgiving in an accessible way. Full of vibrant photographs, it’s ideal for curious young learners.
22. Thanksgiving Mice! by Bethany Roberts
A group of mice puts on a play about the first Thanksgiving in this lighthearted and adorable story. It’s perfect for introducing preschoolers to the holiday’s history in a fun way.
23. The Berenstain Bears Give Thanks by Jan and Mike Berenstain
Growing up I couldn’t get enough of these books! The Bear family learns about the importance of gratitude while preparing for Thanksgiving. This sweet story includes a faith-based message and a Thanksgiving play.
24. Thankful by Eileen Spinelli
Through poetic text and whimsical illustrations, this book celebrates the many things we can be thankful for. It’s a beautiful way to teach gratitude to your preschoolers during Thanksgiving and the month of November. I love anything by Eileen Spinelli.
25. Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story by Kevin Noble Maillard
This award-winning book celebrates Native American culture, family, and food through the story of fry bread. It’s a powerful and meaningful addition to Thanksgiving reading.
26. The First Thanksgiving Day: A Counting Story by Laura Krauss Melmed
This counting book introduces the first Thanksgiving through rhymes and vibrant illustrations. It’s a fun and educational read for preschoolers.
27. This First Thanksgiving Day: A Lift-the-Flap Book by Laura Krauss Melmed
With interactive flaps and engaging text, this book lets kids explore the Pilgrims’ journey and the first Thanksgiving. It’s both educational and entertaining.
28. ‘Twas the Night Before Thanksgiving by Dav Pilkey
A group of kids visits a turkey farm and comes up with a creative plan to save the turkeys. This hilarious story is a Thanksgiving favorite with a twist.
29. I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Pie by Alison Jackson
A Thanksgiving-themed spin on the classic tale, this story follows an old lady who eats her way through Thanksgiving. The rhymes and humor make it a hit with kids. And you KNOW there’s a million Thanksgiving activities you can do with a preschooler and this book!
30. Feast for 10 by Cathryn Falwell
This counting book follows a family as they shop, cook, and prepare for Thanksgiving dinner. It’s a great way to celebrate family togetherness.
Thanksgiving is the perfect time to share stories that spark joy, teach gratitude, and create lasting memories. This carefully curated list of favorite Thanksgiving books includes everything from engaging picture books to timeless classics, making it easy to find your preschoolers’ next favorite book. Whether you’re looking for a fun way to keep young kids entertained or a meaningful story to share during the holiday, these book lists are sure to do a great job of bringing warmth and joy to your Thanksgiving celebration. Happy reading!
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