7 Books to Inspire Gratitude This Thanksgiving—and Ways to Keep the Conversation Going
We all know how powerful gratitude can be. Science tells us that practicing thankfulness boosts happiness and strengthens relationships, and we see its impact in our own daily lives. But explaining these big ideas to young children can be tricky. That’s where books come in—not just to help children understand gratitude, acceptance, and love, but to remind us, as parents, to embody these values in our day-to-day lives.
At Little Garden Montessori, we’ve been focusing on these themes throughout November, weaving them into our classroom discussions and activities. From talking about what it means to be a good friend to noticing the beauty in small moments, the children are exploring gratitude, community, and love in hands-on, age-appropriate ways. We’re encouraging them to think deeply about kindness and connection—both within their classroom community and in the world around them.
The books below are wonderful tools for continuing these conversations at home. We’ve also included simple ways to extend those discussions beyond storytime, helping your child connect with the spirit of gratitude and giving your family opportunities to reflect together.
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by Mo Willems
This playful and heartfelt book is the perfect way to show children how much fun it can be to say “thank you.” As Gerald and Piggie set out to thank everyone who has impacted their lives, readers are reminded that gratitude can be shared in big and small ways.
Extend the Conversation: After reading, ask your child who they might want to thank and why. Write a thank-you note or draw a picture together to show their appreciation for someone special.
by Greg Foley
Bear’s simple yet heartfelt gesture for Mouse reminds readers that gratitude doesn’t need to be grand—it just needs to come from the heart. This story beautifully illustrates the joy of giving and the value of friendships.
Extend the Conversation: Ask your child what small thing they could do for someone they care about. It might be sharing a toy, giving a hug, or helping set the table.
by Kate DePalma
This beautifully illustrated book showcases gratitude traditions from cultures across the globe. From festivals of light to harvest celebrations, children learn how different communities give thanks in unique ways while emphasizing shared human values.
Extend the Conversation: Share with your child a tradition from your own family or culture that celebrates gratitude. Then, brainstorm together a new family ritual to express thankfulness, such as a weekly “thank-you” circle.
by Margaret Sutherland
This simple, relatable book highlights everyday things to be thankful for, from friends to pets and everything in between. Its child-centered perspective makes it perfect for preschoolers.
Extend the Conversation: Try the “two things” activity: ask your child to name two things they are thankful for that aren’t obvious (e.g., instead of “my toys,” it might be “the way my blocks stack so high”). Then share your two things to model thoughtful gratitude.
by David Milgrim
Through a little girl’s journey of noticing beauty in the everyday, this story teaches children to appreciate the small wonders around them, from nature to the kindness of others.
Extend the Conversation: Take a gratitude walk with your child. Look for things to be thankful for in your surroundings—a colorful leaf, a kind neighbor, or the crisp fall air.
by Amy Krouse Rosenthal
Spoon’s journey to self-acceptance teaches children that everyone has unique gifts to offer. It’s a gentle reminder to be thankful for our individuality and the roles we play in our communities.
Extend the Conversation: Discuss with your child one thing they like about themselves and one thing they appreciate about a friend. Use this as an opportunity to celebrate their unique qualities.
by Mem Fox
This poignant book emphasizes love and acceptance across cultures and communities, showing that our similarities far outweigh our differences. It’s a moving reminder of the connections that unite us.
Extend the Conversation: Share with your child one thing you are thankful for about someone in your community, like a neighbor or teacher. Then, help your child think of someone they appreciate in their life.
Honorable Mention:
Consider adding Bear Says Thanks by Karma Wilson to your reading list. This sweet story follows Bear as he hosts a feast for his friends, showing the joy of gathering and giving thanks together.
