Best Pilgrim Books for Preschoolers

Looking for Pilgrim books for preschool? You’re in the right place! Teaching little ones about Pilgrims and the first Thanksgiving can be tricky, but the right books make it fun and easy. Picture books with simple stories and bright illustrations help preschoolers understand history in a way that makes sense to them. Whether you’re a parent reading at bedtime or a teacher planning a classroom lesson, these books bring the Pilgrims’ journey to life.

In this post, you’ll find a list of preschool books perfect for introducing young kids to Pilgrims. Some are sweet and simple, while others are packed with fun facts. No matter what you’re looking for, there’s a book here that will fit your needs.

Pilgrim Books for Preschool

Now that we’ve talked about why books are a great way to teach little ones, let’s check out some preschool Pilgrim books! Each of these stories is perfect for helping young children learn about the Pilgrims in a simple, engaging way.

Whether you want a sweet picture book or a fun, fact-filled story, there’s something here for every little learner. Grab a cozy spot, and let’s explore these wonderful books together!

Sarah Morton’s Day: A Day in the Life of a Pilgrim Girl

There’s a fire to build, breakfast to cook, chickens to feed, goats to milk, and letters and scripture to learn. Between the chores, there is her best friend, Elizabeth, with whom she shares her hopes and dreams. But Sarah is worried about her new stepfather. Will she ever earn his love and learn to call him father?

The Itsy Bitsy Pilgrim

A fun and playful Thanksgiving twist on the favorite nursery rhyme “The Itsy Bitsy Spider”!

The Story of the Pilgrims

From the dangerous voyage across the Atlantic to the first harsh winter to the delicious Thanksgiving feast, all the excitement and wonder of the Pilgrims’ first year in America is captured in this vivid retelling for the youngest historians.

The First Thanksgiving: A Lift-the-Flap Book

A great interactive board book for kids to introduce them to the first Thanksgiving. Lift up flaps on each page provide a surprise for children as they read through the book and learn about the Pilgrims and how the Native Americans helped the Pilgrims adjust to living in a new land.

My First Thanksgiving

Tomie dePaola’s simple text and bright illustrations perfectly capture the joy of this special holiday. Young readers will love learning more about the traditional celebrations of the day.

P is for Pilgrim: A Thanksgiving Alphabet

From the lives of our early settlers, who established the foundations for American freedoms and ideals, to today’s celebrations, P is for Pilgrim colorfully examines the history and lore of Thanksgiving.

One Little, Two Little, Three Little Pilgrims (Picture Puffin Books)

Ten little Pilgrims and ten little Wampanoag boys and girls are getting ready for the harvest feast. In colonial Plymoth, the Pilgrims hunt ducks and geese and dig up turnips and carrots. In a nearby village, the Wampanoag dig for clams, fish for cod, and gather nuts and berries. Finally it’s time for the meal. First everyone gives thanks, then it’s time to eat and celebrate.

The Pilgrims’ First Thanksgiving

Describes the voyage of the Mayflower and the difficulties encountered by the Pilgrims during their first year in the New World, and recounts how they celebrated their first harvest

Giles Hopkins’ First Year at Plymouth

Mrs. Parry’s action-packed and picturesque fact-based story, of Giles Hopkins’ first year at Plymouth, provides an entertaining portrayal of typical and unusual life experiences that Giles Hopkins faced, as the Mayflower Pilgrims learned to live with new challenges in the New World, while making new Indian friends, such as Samoset, Squanto, and chief Massasoit.

The Very First Thanksgiving Day

This sweet story invites children on a journey back to the very first Thanksgiving Day, when two societies came together to feast and honor the earth’s bounty in peace.

The Littlest Pilgrim

Kirsten Richards’ adorable art brings to life this Pilgrim friendship tale; perfect for Thanksgiving, or anytime!

The Story of Thanksgiving

Here is the story of Thanksgiving told in only about 200 words that are simple enough for a toddler to understand. From the Pilgrims’ voyage to the first feast with the Native Americans, the Thanksgiving story is presented in its most traditional form.

FAQs About Pilgrim Books for Preschoolers

What should I look for in a Pilgrim book for preschoolers?

Look for simple language, engaging illustrations, and a story that makes history easy to understand. Books with rhymes, repetition, or interactive elements are great for keeping little ones interested!

How can I make these books more engaging for my child?

Use fun voices, point out details in the pictures, and ask open-ended questions like, “What do you think it was like on the Mayflower?” You can also add a craft or pretend play activity to bring the story to life!

Are Pilgrim books too complicated for preschoolers?

Not if you choose the right ones! The best books focus on relatable themes like traveling, working together, and sharing, making history fun and easy for little learners.

Reading Pilgrim books for preschoolers is a wonderful way to introduce little learners to history in a fun, simple way. The right books make the Pilgrims’ journey and the first Thanksgiving easy to understand, helping kids connect with the story.

Whether you’re reading at home or in the classroom, these books are perfect for sparking curiosity and great conversations. Grab a book, snuggle up, and enjoy exploring history together!

Tara

Tara is the brains behind Homeschool Preschool, where her journey from preschool and public school teacher to homeschooling mom of three fuels her passion for early childhood education. With a blend of expertise and firsthand experience, Tara’s writings offer practical tips and engaging resources to support families in creating meaningful learning adventures at home.