12 Thankful books for this Thanksgiving…and Beyond

Feeling grateful and expressing appreciation is much more than just remembering to say “thank you.” And, finding ways to help children practice gratitude, without being preachy or prescriptive, can sometimes be tough.

These stories - some gentle, some funny, some sweet - can help kids and adults talk about how to practice gratitude and the many ways to say thanks for the good things and wonderful people in our lives. Look for these books in our Thankful & Grateful book displays at both library locations, or click on the link for a book and place a hold through our online catalog. Pick up one or two to share with your kids today!

We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga by Traci Sorrell

Otsaliheliga, or “we are grateful,” is the Cherokee Nation’s practice of expressing gratitude. In this book, Sorell takes you through the seasons, activities, and celebrations observed in Cherokee culture.

All the World by Liz Garton Scanlon

Follow a small group of family and friends through their day and discover the beauty and gifts in everyday life.

The Thankful Book by Todd Parr

Todd Parr's bright and simple style gives kids a practical -  and sometimes silly - way of talking about gratitude. A great book for younger children.

Thankful by Eileen Spinelli

With rhyming, whimsical prose, Spinelli offers children gentle reminders of the abundance and acts of kindness that might make them feel thankful.

Give Thank You A Try by James Patterson

Through charming illustrations, this story shows how simple words of appreciation can highlight moments of generosity and warmth.

Elmo Gives Thanks by Erin Guendelsberger

Join Elmo as he discovers meaningful ways to experience gratitude each day. This engaging story encourages young readers to recognize life’s everyday blessings and share their appreciation throughout the autumn season and beyond.

Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Pena

On Sundays CJ and his Nana ride the bus across town to their stop on Market Street. But today, CJ is not happy about it. As they ride across town together, Nana helps CJ open his eyes to the beauty in everyday things.

Thanks for Thanksgiving by Julie Markes

From turkey on the table to warm, cozy cuddles, life is full of small things and bigger pleasures. But what is most important is being able to share them with family!

Spendin’ Time by Gary R. Gray, Jr. 

A grandson experiences an ordinary day that's full of extraordinary love as he and his grandfather run errands in town, pick berries, go fishing, and enjoy just “spendin’ time.”

I’m Feeling Thankful by Natalie Shaw

When Daniel Tiger feels grateful, he makes sure to say "thank you." This gentle story helps  little ones learn about what it means to be thankful and includes tips to help guide kids through their emotions.

Ladybug Girl Gives Thanks by Jacky Davis

Ladybug Girl explains why she is thankful for all of her favorite things, including Bingo, her friends and family, the trees, her books, and pumpkin pie.

Five Little Thank-Yous by Cindy Jin

Shaped like a handprint turkey craft, this colorful rhyming board book is all about the important things to be thankful for on Thanksgiving!