Thanksgiving is the perfect time of year to teach children about kindness, gratitude, and community. Picture books are a wonderful way to spark meaningful conversations about thankfulness and giving. Whether you’re planning a Thanksgiving classroom read-aloud, gratitude writing activity, or social-emotional learning lesson, this list of popular Thanksgiving and gratitude books for elementary students has something for every teacher!
🍁 1. “Thank You, Omu!” by Oge Mora
This heartwarming story celebrates generosity and community. Omu makes a delicious stew that smells so good, everyone in the neighborhood wants a taste. In the end, they all come together to share with her, too.
Why teachers love it: Perfect for lessons about kindness, sharing, and gratitude.
Extension idea: Have students write or draw one way they can “share their stew” (help others in their community).
🦃 2. “The Very Stuffed Turkey” by Katharine Kenah
This silly and sweet book follows a turkey who’s invited to multiple Thanksgiving dinners in one day—he just can’t say no!
Why teachers love it: It’s fun, full of Thanksgiving spirit, and perfect for a light-hearted read-aloud.
Extension idea: Have students list their favorite Thanksgiving foods or design their own silly “stuffed turkey” dinner menu.
🍂 3. “Balloons Over Broadway” by Melissa Sweet
Based on the true story of Tony Sarg, the puppeteer who created the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade balloons, this beautifully illustrated book blends art, history, and creativity.
Why teachers love it: Great for cross-curricular STEM and art connections!
Extension idea: Challenge students to design their own parade balloon using recycled materials.
🧡 4. “The Thankful Book” by Todd Parr
Simple, colorful, and heartfelt, this book is a classroom favorite. Each page reminds children of something to be thankful for—from favorite foods to family hugs.
Why teachers love it: It’s perfect for younger elementary students and promotes gratitude in an easy-to-understand way.
Extension idea: Make a class “Thankful Book” with each student contributing a page.
🦃 5. “Turkey Trouble” by Wendi Silvano
This laugh-out-loud story follows a clever turkey who tries to disguise himself as other animals to avoid becoming Thanksgiving dinner.
Why teachers love it: Great for sequencing, predicting, and creativity.
Extension idea: Pair it with a disguise a turkey craft or writing activity!
💛 6. “Gratitude Is My Superpower” by Alicia Ortego
A wonderful SEL (social-emotional learning) book that teaches children how to appreciate the good things in life.
Why teachers love it: Encourages mindfulness and helps students develop a positive mindset.
Extension idea: Start a daily or weekly “Gratitude Journal” or "Gratitude Tree" in your classroom.
🍁 7. “Thankful” by Eileen Spinelli
This charming rhyming book celebrates everyday gratitude—from the firefighter who’s thankful for his hat to the poet thankful for words.
Why teachers love it: It’s poetic, calming, and beautifully reminds students to appreciate small things.
Extension idea: Have students write their own “I’m thankful for…” poem.
🦃 8. “A Plump and Perky Turkey” by Teresa Bateman
A fun and imaginative story where villagers try to trick a turkey into becoming their feast—but he’s smarter than they think!
Why teachers love it: It’s perfect for humor, problem-solving discussions, and Thanksgiving fun.
Extension idea: Let students create their own silly turkey disguises and stories.
🍂 9. “Bear Says Thanks” by Karma Wilson
Bear wants to thank his friends with a big feast—but realizes he has no food to share. His friends remind him that his company is enough.
Why teachers love it: A sweet story about gratitude, friendship, and giving.
Extension idea: Use it to start a conversation about how we can show thankfulness beyond gifts or food.
💛 10. “How to Catch a Turkey” by Adam Wallace
Part of the popular How to Catch series, this book is full of excitement, rhymes, and clever traps.
Why teachers love it: It’s hilarious and perfect for STEM challenges and creative thinking.
Extension idea: Have students design and test their own “turkey traps” using classroom materials! You can also have students write about how they would catch a turkey with this hilarious writing craft.
🦃 Bringing Gratitude into the Classroom
Thanksgiving books are more than seasonal reads—they’re opportunities to help students build empathy, reflect on kindness, and recognize what makes their lives special. Pair these read-alouds with writing prompts, crafts, or gratitude activities to make November meaningful and memorable.
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