Balloons Over Broadway by Melissa Sweet
For those familiar with the Macy’s Day Parade, this story tells the true story of Tony Sarg, the puppeteer behind its iconic giant balloons. From his childhood dreams of becoming a marionette man to his many other clever inventions, this book celebrates the ingenuity of creating something new as well as the value of pursuing dreams. The illustrations are intriguing and interesting, and this tale won’t soon be forgotten!
We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga by Traci Sorell and illustrated by Frane Lessac
Otsaliheliga (oh-jah-LEE-hay-lee-gah) is a word the Cherokee people use to express gratitude. This story begins in the fall and ends the following summer, showcasing many unique Cherokee celebrations and experiences. It is complete with a glossary and the complete Cherokee syllabary of the words used in the book. We Are Grateful offers a beautiful look into Cherokee culture and will help readers remember to be grateful and express gratitude for all the amazing things in our world!
How to Catch a Turkey by Adam Wallace and illustrated by Andy Elkerton
Adam Wallace’s “How to Catch” series is always full of surprises and fun, and How to Catch a Turkey is no exception! The story begins when a turkey runs loose in a school! Will the school come together and figure out a plan to catch him? With plenty of hilarious antics, fun twists, and colorful illustrations, this book will keep readers on the edge of their seats as the students turn their school upside-down trying to catch this clever turkey!
Bear Says Thanks by Karma Wilson and illustrated by Jane Chapman
Karma Wilson’s Bear stories have always been among my favorites! Loveable Bear is back again and wants to throw a party, but he has nothing to share! When his friends come equipped with plenty of goodies, Bear is grateful but still mourns the fact that he has nothing to share in return. Once again, his friends come to the rescue to show Bear how much he is loved, gifts or no gifts. This is a wonderful story of friendship and gratitude, with a great reminder of our own value and importance, regardless of how much (or little) we have to give.
The Great Thanksgiving Escape by Mark Fearing
This is a hilarious story both parents and children will enjoy! Gavin does not see family gatherings as “fun.” But with the help of his cousin Rhonda, he turns the holiday into an exciting and hilarious adventure! From escaping ferocious guard dogs, to cheek-pinching aunties, a wall of butts, and teenage “zombies,” readers will enjoy this comical interpretation of a Thanksgiving family gathering, and may even see their own family embedded within!
Thanks for Thanksgiving by Julie Markes and illustrated by Doris Barrette
Filled with a collection of many, many things to be thankful for, this story follows a simple pattern and easy-to-read format paired with beautiful and detailed illustrations. Its many ideas may even help little ones spark their own thankful list!
Thankful by Eileen Spinelli and illustrated by Archie Preston
This is another fantastic book of gratitude, featuring a variety of people, their professions, and individual things for which they are thankful! For example, a waitress is grateful for her comfortable shoes, a poet for his words that rhyme, a clown for her costume, and many more! The book introduces children to a variety of people and professions, while helping readers think beyond themselves. Complete with a touching ending, this is another great read and will continue to add to the many reasons to be thankful!
Porcupine’s Pie by Laura Renauld and illustrated by Jennie Poh
This adorable story follows a loveable porcupine excited for Fall Feast Day! Readers will follow along as Porcupine attempts to make her famous cranberry pie. Along the way, she encounters many of her animal friends, but Porcupine, being the kind and generous friend she is, encourages each of her friends to “help yourself” to her supplies, so that they can make their own famous treats. But what will happen to Porcupine’s famous cranberry pie when she realizes she has lost all her cranberries? Readers will delight in the cumulative story and fall in love with the kind and caring animal friends!
10 Fat Turkeys by Tony Johnston and illustrated by Rich Deas
Follow the turkeys, starting with 10 all the way down to 1! This story is full of interesting words and makes for a great counting read-aloud! Plus, the illustrations are wonderful, with their bright and colorful (not to mention hilarious!) turkeys!
Thank You, Sarah: The Woman Who Saved Thanksgiving by Laurie Halse Anderson and illustrated by Matt Faulkner
A Thanksgiving picture book list wouldn’t be complete without a little history on this wonderful holiday. This story features the true story of Sarah Hale, a real-life superhero who advocated for an official Thanksgiving holiday for over “thirty-eight years, thousands of letters, and countless bottles of ink!” Adults and children alike will enjoy this engaging tale, Sarah’s persistence, and will hopefully gain a bit more gratitude for the Thanksgiving holiday we celebrate today!