Bookstore Plus-The Importance of Giving Thanks: Our Favorite Books on Gratitude

As we approach the often busy and sometimes stressful holiday season, finding moments of gratitude can become increasingly challenging. But the importance of being gracious in the upcoming days cannot be understated. The holidays are the perfect time to embrace the opportunity to give thanks, and Bookstore Plus has a list of books to help celebrate the spirit of the season.

From the whimsical pages of children's books, in which characters learn the importance of saying "thank you," to the nuanced reflections of memoirs and novels, literature plays a profound role in amplifying this sentiment and bringing it into homes across the country. The Bookstore Plus team has done the hard work for you by curating a list of our favorite books discussing the theme of giving thanks. This collection offers the chance to pause, reflect, and embrace all that you are grateful for this year. Each of these books invites readers to explore the often-overlooked beauty in the simple act of giving thanks.

The Thank-You Book by Mo Willems:

An excellent choice for younger readers, this delightful children's book is part of the Elephant & Piggie series. Mo Willems' The Thank-You Book is a charming and playful exploration of the importance of saying thanks. With Willems' signature humor and engaging illustrations, it's a heartwarming tale that follows Piggie's quest to thank everyone who's been part of their adventures.

Gratitude by Oliver Sacks:

Through four essays that originally appeared in The New York Times, renowned neurologist Oliver Sacks reflects on a life well-lived in this posthumously published collection of essays. Sacks' keen observations after being re-diagnosed with cancer offer a unique perspective on gratitude, making it a compelling read for those seeking a deeper exploration of the theme.

Thank You for Being Late by Thomas L. Friedman:

While not explicitly about gratitude, Pulitzer Prize-winning New York Times columnist and author Thomas Friedman writes about the fast pace of modern life and the importance of reflection and appreciation. It's a thought-provoking book that encourages readers to seek gratitude amid the chaos of our world.

The Art of Grace: On Moving Well Through Life by Sarah L. Kaufman:

In this book, author Sarah L. Kaufman explores the concept of grace in various aspects of life, from the arts, sports, and the humanities to just everyday life. While promoting a holistic appreciation and practice of grace, Kaufman illuminates how the joining of body, mind, and spirit is a way to nurture ourselves and others. It's a thoughtful read that prompts readers to appreciate the grace that exists in everyday moments.

The Language of Baklava by Diana Abu-Jaber:

Abu-Jaber effortlessly weaves the themes of family, culture, and food together in her memoir. The author's reflections on her Jordanian-American family highlight the importance of appreciating one's roots and the things that shape our memories.

The Gratitude Diaries by Janice Kaplan:

Kaplan takes readers on a year-long journey of practicing gratitude. Through personal anecdotes and scientific research, she highlights the transformative power of gratitude in shaping a more positive and fulfilling life.

Thanks a Thousand by A.J. Jacobs:

In Thanks a Thousand, New York Times bestselling author A.J. Jacobs decided to thank every single person involved in producing his morning cup of coffee. The resulting journey takes him across the globe, transforms his life, and reveals secrets about how gratitude can make us all happier, more generous, and more connected. This humorous and thought-provoking story emphasizes the interconnectedness of our lives and the often-overlooked contributions of others and is a reminder of just how much we take for granted on a daily basis.

Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer:

Drawing on her life as an indigenous scientist and as a mother, Kimmerer proves how other living beings offer us endless gifts and lessons, even if we’ve forgotten how to hear their voices. Braiding Sweetgrass beautifully intertwines indigenous wisdom, scientific insights, and personal reflections to highlight the understanding you can find in the things around you. Kimmerer encourages readers to appreciate the gifts of the Earth, fostering a deep sense of gratitude for the natural world.

Literature serves as a powerful lens and reflective glass. Through memorable characters and journeys they embark on, both fiction and nonfiction, these books capture the essence of gratitude. All of these authors skillfully weave the theme of gratitude within their stories, showcasing how acknowledging blessings, big or small, enriches the human experience.

Whether it's a classic novel, a contemporary memoir, or a children’s book, each of these stories stands as a timeless testament to the importance of giving thanks and would make the perfect accompaniment to your holiday season.

Explore these titles and many others on our website, thebookstoreplus.com. Happy reading, and may these books bring a sense of gratitude and joy to your literary journey all year long!