Here are just a few of my faves...
In this season of gratitude and harvest, fostering an understanding of thankfulness becomes paramount. I firmly believe that instilling a sense of appreciation in young minds lays the foundation for compassion, kindness, and empathy in adulthood.
With this in mind, I've curated a collection of enchanting books designed to introduce children to the spirit of gratitude and the significance of the harvest season. These literary gems not only captivate young imaginations but also serve as invaluable tools for cultivating a deep appreciation for the richness of Thanksgiving traditions.
Join me on this literary journey as we explore tales that illuminate the essence of gratitude, inviting children to embrace the warmth of the season and the joy of giving thanks.
We Gather Together
by Wendy Pfeffer, illustrated by Linda Black
What is the fall equinox? The official start of the harvest season, it occurs around September 21 each year. It marks the end of summer and the beginning of longer nights and shorter days. For many cultures around the world, the fall equinox represents a time to celebrate the harvest and begin collecting and storing crops.
Looking at both the science of weather and the history of how the fall equinox has been celebrated by various cultures throughout the world, this book will inspire a new understanding of autumn and the harvest season.
Thank You, Omu
by Oge Mora
Everyone in the neighborhood dreams of a taste of Omu's delicious stew! One by one, they follow their noses toward the scrumptious scent. And one by one, Omu offers a portion of her meal. Soon the pot is empty. Has she been so generous that she has nothing left for herself?
Debut author-illustrator Oge Mora brings to life a heartwarming story of sharing and community in colorful cut-paper designs as luscious as Omu's stew, with an extra serving of love. An author's note explains that "Omu" (pronounced AH-moo) means "queen" in the Igbo language of her parents, but growing up, she used it to mean "Grandma." This book was inspired by the strong female role models in Oge Mora's life.
We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga
by Traci Sorrel, illustrated by Frané Lessac
The word otsaliheliga (oh-jah-LEE-hay-lee-gah) is used by members of the Cherokee Nation to express gratitude. Beginning in the fall with the new year and ending in summer, follow a full Cherokee year of celebrations and experiences. Written by a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, this look at one group of Native Americans is appended with a glossary and the complete Cherokee syllabary, originally created by Sequoyah.
Around the Table that Grandad Built
by Melanie Heuiser Hill, illustrated by Jaime Kim
In a unique take on the cumulative classic “This Is the House That Jack Built,” a family gathers with friends and neighbors to share a meal around a table that brims with associations: napkins sewn by Mom, glasses from Mom and Dad’s wedding, silverware gifted to Dad by his grandma long ago. Not to mention the squash from the garden, the bread baked by Gran, and the pies made by the young narrator (with a little help). Serving up a diverse array of dishes and faces, this warm and welcoming story is poised to become a savored part of Thanksgiving traditions to come.
Duck for Turkey Day
by Jacqueline Jules, illustrated by Kathryn Mitter
It's almost Thanksgiving, and Tuyet is excited about the holiday and the vacation from school. There's just one problem: her Vietnamese American family is having duck for Thanksgiving dinner - not turkey! Nobody has duck for Thanksgiving - what will her teacher and the other kids think? To her surprise, Tuyet enjoys her yummy thanksgiving dinner anyhow - and an even bigger surprise is waiting for her at school on Monday. Dinners from roast beef to lamb to enchiladas adorned the Thanksgiving tables of her classmates, but they all had something in common - family! Kids from families with different traditions will enjoy this warm story about "the right way" to celebrate an American holiday.
Gratitude is my Superpower
by Alicia Ortego
In this sweet story, little Betsy will learn that happiness is made up of simple things in life, both small and big. With the help of the magic stone, she will begin to feel gratitude for her parents, friends, and toys. But what happens when little Betsy forgets to use the magic of her stone? She will realize that the power of gratitude is hidden in her heart.
"Gratitude is my superpower" will teach your little ones to appreciate the warmth of home, time spent playing with friends, and family relationships.
Thank You, Mama
by Linda Meeker, illustrated by Sandra Eide
We all want to raise happy eaters who enjoy trying new foods, mealtimes with family, and being thankful. That's why so many parents love Linda Meeker's charming videos of her son Grey saying "Thank you, Mama!" With colorful illustrations that capture a child's daily snacks and mealtimes, Thank You, Mama will delight parents and kids alike as it follows a little boy exploring different foods—from vegetables to sushi—and trying to pick his favorite.