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This list emphasizes authentic representations of Thanksgiving story from a Native American perspective, and also includes books that celebrate gratitude and spending time with family around the Thanksgiving holiday.

While this book list is Thanksgiving-specific, Thanksgiving should not be the only time during November (Native American Heritage Month) you are seeking out books by and about Native people. We hope these lists will encourage families to discover, support, and share books by Native authors year-round.

cover of book called 1621 : a new look at Thanksgiving
1621 : a new look at Thanksgiving

Grace, Catherine O'Neill, 1950-

A recreation of the first Thanksgiving reveals the actual events during the three days that the Wampanoag people and the colonists came together.

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Balloons Over Broadway
Balloons Over Broadway

Sweet, Melissa, 1956-

In brilliant collage illustrations, Caldecott Honor artist Melissa Sweet tells the story of the puppeteer Tony Sarg, capturing his genius, his dedication, his zest for play, and his long-lasting gift to America--the inspired helium balloons that would become the trademark of Macy's Parade.

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Gracias book cover
Gracias

Mora, Pat

A young boy celebrates family, friendship, and fun by telling about some of the everyday things for which he is thankful.

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Over the river and through the woods
Over the River and Through the Wood

Randall, Emma (ILT)

In this stunning paper-over-board picture book, a blustering wind stings the toes and bites the nose, but hearts are warm and there's lots to eat-for 'tis Thanksgiving Day.

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Squanto's Journey book cover
Squanto’s Journey

Bruchac, Joseph, 1942-

Squanto recounts how in 1614 he was captured by the British, sold into slavery in Spain, and ultimately returned to the New World to become a guide and friend for the colonists.

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Thankful picture book cover
Thankful

Spinelli, Eileen

"Combines rhymes and illustrations to convey the importance of being thankful for everyday blessings"-- Provided by publisher.

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Thanks a million book cover
Thanks a Million

Grimes, Nikki

Sixteen poems remind us how wonderful it is to feel thankful and how powerful a "Thank you" can be.

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Thanks for thanksgiving
Thanks for Thanksgiving

Markes, Julie

At Thanksgiving time, children express their gratitude for the people and things in their lives.

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thanksgiving is for giving thanks
Thanksgiving is for Giving Thanks

Sutherland, Margaret

A child lists all the things for which he is thankful, especially at Thanksgiving.

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The Thankful Book
The Thankful Book

Parr, Todd

Easy-to-read text encourages the reader to find something every day for which to be thankful, from underwear that is just the right size to birthday cakes and the wishes they bring.

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thanksgiving door book cover
The Thanksgiving Door

Atwell, Debby

After burning their Thanksgiving dinner, Ann and Ed head for the local cafe, where they are welcomed by an immigrant family into an unusual celebration that gives everyone cause to be thankful.

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