Miss Debby's Best-Loved Books: Books About Gratitude

Charlotte Jewish News November 2021

By Debby Block

Recent studies have shown that gratitude serves as a powerful tool with many benefits to a child’s mental and physical health. Not surprisingly, the benefits of gratitude include reduced depression and aggression and improved resilience and self-esteem.

Thanksgiving is around the corner, making this the perfect time of year to look at children’s literature that promotes gratitude.

Based on a Yiddish folktale, “The Little, Little House” by Jessica Souhami is one of my all-time favorite books. This is the story of an unhappy family crowded into a small shack. When they ask for advice from the wisest person in the village, they are instructed to first bring a rooster and then add a duck, then a sheep, and finally a cow into their small home. Eventually, when they let all the animals go, their little home seems, in comparison, peaceful and plenty big enough. This classic tale has been told in many ways and by many authors, but the message of gratitude is perfect for children to grasp. Recommended for ages 2-5. (Older children, ages 5-8, may prefer “It Could Always Be Worse” by Margot Zemach.)

For younger children, I recommend the board book “Harvest Blessings” by Amy Meltzer. This book provides simple verbiage, gorgeous pictures, and even Hebrew brachot (blessings). I appreciate that this is two books in one. One side is “Gifts from the Earth,” and the other side is “Gifts From the Trees.” Recommended for ages 6 months-2 years.

If you are looking for a book to enjoy again and again, I highly recommend “The Thankful Book” by Todd Parr. You and your children will respond positively to the bold illustrations and Parr’s message that consistently promotes positive self-esteem! Recommended for ages 2-4. Stay tuned for details on PJ Library’s program with Todd Parr in March 2022.

My recent discovery is the book “The Thank You Letter” by Jane Cabrera. The main character, Grace, starts by writing thank-you letters for birthday presents, but she continues writing letters to everyone and everything that has made a difference in her life — no matter how big or small. As a result of all her gratitude, Grace receives a special surprise. A delightful, lighthearted book that may be the perfect book for a Hanukkah present this year! Recommended for ages 3-7.

Finally, I was impressed with the empathy promoted in the book “Those Shoes” by Maribeth Boelts. School-aged Jeremy has been dreaming of a specific type of popular high-top shoes. He successfully searches a second-hand shop for a pair of “those shoes,” and although they are way too small, he squeezes his feet in anyway. After reflection, he passes his cool shoes to a younger child who needs them more than he does. Recommended for kindergarten-3rd grade.

All these books that promote gratitude are available at the Center for Jewish Education, home of the Levine-Sklut Judaic Library. Drop in to pick up one of these books or call/email today to reserve your copy. (704) 944-6783 library@jewishcharlotte.org.