November Children’s Book List

November is a settling-in time in our house. We have slower mornings, early restful evenings and more home based family time. The foods we eat lean towards cozy nourishing comfort food and we begin to think about the holidays ahead of us and the end of the year. We are book lovers here and reading is the perfect cozy pastime. I like to share books with my kids that capture whimsy, spark conversations, build empathy, and teach cultural understanding. Here, I’ve gathered eight of our favorite children’s books that encapsulate the warmth and meaning of November.

1. The Thank You Dish by Trace Balla

We love this story and read it throughout the year. It is a gentle reminder to find gratitude in the little things and the often-overlooked contributions of others. Through the story of a simple meal shared between a mother and daughter, this book celebrates the interconnectedness of community, nature, and food. It’s a wonderful way to encourage children to express gratitude and recognize the many hands that help make our daily lives richer.

2. Stone Soup by Heather Forest

This story is a classic and we love this retelling. Stone Soup reminds us of the magic that happens when we share and come together as a community. This story highlights kindness, generosity and cooperation—perfect themes to reflect on as we gather for meals and express our gratitude this month. Bonus: There is a recipe in the back of the book to make your own “stone soup” together as a family.

3. Keepunumuk: Weeachumun’s Thanksgiving Story by Danielle Greendeer, Anthony Perry, and Alexis Bunten

This book tells the important truth about Native American history as it relates to Thanksgiving. Told through the eyes of a grandmother sharing the true tale with her grandchildren, Keepunumuk brings attention to the Wampanoag people’s role in the first harvest celebration and the long lasting loss that came along with welcoming European settlers. With beautiful illustrations and an authentic narrative, this book provides an opportunity to honor Indigenous voices and deepen our understanding of this season.

4. Pumpkin Soup by Helen Cooper

Both of my kids love this story and we’ve been reading it for years. It features Cat, Duck, and Squirrel as they make their perfect pumpkin soup. But when tempers flare and routines change, they learn lessons of friendship, compromise, and the comfort of togetherness. It’s an excellent tale to read while enjoying a bowl of warm soup on a chilly November day.

5. Wild Child by Lynn Plourde

This has been a favorite of mine since I was a child and is part of a four book series representing each season. A perfect read for November nights, Wild Child is whimsical story told through a beautiful personification of Autumn and Mother Nature’s tender encouragement as she prepares her child for Winter’s arrival. This book invites us to slow down, embrace the changing season, and cherish the fleeting moments of fall. Grab the other seasons here: Winter, Spring, Summer.

6. We Are Still Here! Native American Truths Everyone Should Know by Traci Sorell

We Are Still Here! is an essential read that highlights the perseverance and vibrant presence of Native American communities today. Traci Sorell’s book is perfect for children to learn about Native American history and contemporary life. The text is more challenging than some of the other recommendations on this list but it can be divided into multiple reads to accommodate all ages and attention spans. November is Native American Heritage Month, making this book a necessary addition to this list as we learn about the truth in our past and present and the work that needs to be done for the future.

7. Those Shoes by Maribeth Boelts

This story is about wants, needs, and the beauty of giving. Those Shoes follows a young boy named Jeremy who desires a trendy pair of shoes that his family cannot afford. The story navigates themes of empathy, selflessness, and perspective, making it a touching read for November when we reflect on what truly matters and the importance of giving.

8. Bear Says Thanks by Karma Wilson

We love Bear. This installment in the series is a cozy story about community and giving thanks. As Bear prepares a feast and invites his friends, he realizes he has nothing to offer. But his friends bring food and cheer, teaching Bear—and young readers—that sharing and gratitude are the greatest gifts. This is a heartwarming choice for story time and my kids want to read it again and again.

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