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Thankful
Last updated Wednesday, December 10, 2025
Author: Eileen Spinelli
Illustrator: Archie Preston
Date of Publication: 2015
ISBN: 0310000882
Grade Level: Kindergarten (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Dec. 2025
Synopsis:
From School Library Journal:
"Two siblings look at people around them and imagine the things they are grateful for. "The waitress is thankful/for comfortable shoes. /The local reporter, for interesting news. /The gardener's/thankful for/every green/sprout. /The fireman,/for putting the fire out."
Additionally, an artist is thankful for color and light and a mayor is thankful for every vote. The same two children role-play the various professions throughout.
| Discussion topics for before reading: |
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What are you thankful for?
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What time of year do you think it is based on the cover of the book?
Vocabulary:
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Sprout - A shoot or a bud of a plant.
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Cozy - Warm and snug in a comfortable way.
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Tailor - One who makes, alters, or repairs clothes.
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Pastor - A minister or priest in charge of a congregation.
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| Discussion topics for during/after reading: |
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How do firemen and women put out fires?
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What do doctors do to get their patients well?
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How do you show thanks to the people in your lives?
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| Craft ideas: |
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The children can make their own books with pictures of what they are thankful for.
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The children can make their own crowns.
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| Special activities: |
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Write a thank you letter to someone who helps you. Take it with you and give it to that person later.
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*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions.
You can use them, but you don't have to use them.
You can expand upon them, or add your own twist.
Remember, though, that the focus of your time should
not be on the development and execution of a craft;
the focus should be on the read-aloud and the
enjoyment of the book!
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