Celebrating Chuseok, the Korean Harvest Festival

A 2026 Notable Social Studies Trade Books Award Winner 

Giving Thanks with Halmoni is a heartwarming picture book that introduces young readers to the rich traditions of Chuseok, Korea’s harvest moon festival.

As the moon grows fuller each night, Su-Jin’s halmoni (grandmother) prepares for the biggest Korean holiday of the year—a time for family, gratitude, and remembrance.

Eager to share the celebration, Su-Jin invites her friends Maddy and Keisha to help Halmoni get ready. Together, they prepare traditional foods, wrap gifts in colorful cloth, play festive games, and learn how to honor ancestors. Along the way, the girls discover how to wish each other a happy Chuseok in Korean and explore the connections between Korean and American Thanksgiving traditions.

With vibrant illustrations by Il Sung Na and storytelling by Kathleen Choi and Sook Nyul Choi, this book beautifully captures the spirit of Chuseok and the joy of cultural exchange. A touching tale of friendship, identity, and belonging, it’s perfect for readers ages 4–7 and families looking to celebrate heritage and gratitude together.