1. Paulie Pastrami Achieves World Peace by James Proimos
Ages 3-6

Paulie Pastrami is only seven-years-old, yet he knows he can bring about world peace. With the help of his dad—and a whole lot of cupcakes—he sets out on a giving spree. Full of determination and compassion, and sporting a messy mop of brown hair, Paulie is one plucky kid to admire. Find it at NYPL or buy it on amazon.

2. Giving Thanks by Jonathan London, illustrated by Gregory Manchess
Ages 4-8

The story is simple and beautiful: A father and son share a walk through the woods on a crisp autumn day. Embracing Native American traditions, the father believes that nature is a gift; in return, you must give thanks. Awash in burnt oranges and golden yellows, this tale wraps readers in warmth. Find it at NYPL or buy in on amazon.

3. Mole Music by David McPhail
Ages 4-8

Every night, Mole plays his violin in his burrow underground, never imagining that anyone is listening. But above, people are entranced. In fact, his music has the power to melt heartache and stop war. Sweetly innocent, Mole isn’t searching for praise or fame; he simply plays for the joy of it. Find it at NYPL or buy it on amazon.

4. Rabbit’s Gift by George Shannon, illustrated by Dronzek
Ages 3-6

In this old folk tale, Rabbit finds two turnips on a blustery day but he only needs one, so he gives the other to his friend Donkey. But Donkey already has a potato, so he gives the turnip to Goat. Thus starts a cycle of generosity, inspiring readers to always think of others in need. Find it at NYPL or buy it on amazon.

5. New York’s Bravest by Mary Pope Osborne, illustrated by Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher
Ages 5-8

This beautifully illustrated picture book is based on the life of a real New York City firefighter from the 1840s, whose heroics were larger-than-life. He saved many people in his time, and his story reflects the selflessness of the men and women of the FDNY today. Find it at NYPL or buy it on amazon.

6. Thank You Bear by Greg Foley
Ages 3-6

Bear has a cool gift that he's excited to give to his pal Mouse, but his other friends criticize it. They say it's too small, too ordinary and too boring, and Bear begins to doubt himself. A gentle lesson about self-assurance, friendship and generosity. Find it at NYPL or buy it on amazon.

7. The Lion and the Mice by Rebecca and Ed Emberley
Ages 3-6

In a variation on the well-known fable, a mouse repays a lion in an unexpected way, except this rodent is dressed in tiny green heels and a bright purple frock. With bold colors and simple text ideal for new readers, Aesop's fable has never had this much pizzazz. Find it at NYPL or buy it on amazon.

8. Plant a Kiss by Amy Krouse Rosenthal, illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds
Ages 3-6

Little Miss plants a kiss. She tends to it and waits. And waits. And suddenly there's a sparkly, swirly sprout! Little Miss shouts, “I’ll share!” But her friends say, “Don’t you dare! It’s far too rare!” Reminiscent of The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein (but far less controversial), Plant a Kiss is uplifting and joyous. It's set to be released on December 27, so while you can't read it this Thanksgiving, it will make a wonderful addition to your bookshelf at any time of year. Preorder it on amazon.

Get ready for Thanksgiving with tips on the best viewing spots for the Macy's parade and balloon inflation.
 

Thanks to The New York Public Library for providing this book list. You can find all of these titles at the library.