As children gear up for another exciting school year, it’s the perfect time to introduce them to engaging books that capture the spirit of back-to-school adventures. Whether it’s overcoming first-day jitters, celebrating diversity, or navigating friendships, these books offer delightful stories that resonate with elementary school kids. In this blog post, we’ve compiled an exciting list of back-to-school books that will spark imagination, inspire confidence, and foster a love for learning. Let’s get started
1. All Are Welcome- by Alexandra Penfold and Suzanne Kaufman:
This heartwarming picture book celebrates inclusivity and diversity in the classroom. Through vibrant illustrations and rhythmic text, it promotes a sense of belonging, kindness, and acceptance among students of various backgrounds.
2. school’s First Day of School- by Adam Rex and Christian Robinson:
3. The Best School Year Ever- by Barbara Robinson
Join the Herdman siblings as they return to school in this hilarious and heartwarming sequel to “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.” Follow the misadventures of these unconventional kids as they navigate friendships, challenges, and unexpected surprises during a school year like no other.
4. It’s Back to School We Go!: First Day Stories from Around The World
Discover how children around the world experience the first day of school in this captivating book. Through vibrant illustrations and diverse narratives, young readers will gain a global perspective on the excitement and nervousness associated with starting a new school year.
5. Make Way for Dyamonde Daniel- by Nikki Grimes
Follow Dyamonde Daniel, a spirited and confident young girl, as she begins a new school year. Through her engaging and relatable story, children will learn about empathy, understanding, and the importance of embracing their own uniqueness.
6. First Day Jitters- by Julie Danneberg
In this humorous and relatable picture book, Sarah Jane Hartwell feels nervous about her first day of school. Discover a delightful twist as readers find out who is really experiencing the first-day jitters. This book is perfect for alleviating back-to-school anxieties and encouraging a positive mindset.
7. Principal Tate Is Running Late!- by Kate Klise and M. Sarah Klise
Join the hilarity as Principal Tate gets caught in a series of outrageous mishaps on the first day of school. This entertaining and illustrated chapter book will keep young readers engaged while showcasing the unpredictable adventures that can occur in a school setting.
8. The Name Jar- by Yangsook Choi
Unhei, a young Korean girl, faces the challenge of adapting to a new school and deciding whether to change her name. Through this touching story, children will learn about identity, acceptance, and the importance of embracing their cultural heritage.
9. The Smallest Spot of a Dot- by Alice Schertle and Holly Meade
In this beautifully illustrated picture book, children discover that even the smallest members of a classroom have significant contributions to make. The book celebrates the uniqueness of each child and emphasizes the value of their ideas, perspectives, and talents.
10. School People- by Lee Bennett Hopkins and Ellen Shi
This poetry collection celebrates the various individuals who make a school come alive, from the bus driver to the librarian, the custodian to the teacher. Through lyrical verses and captivating illustrations, children will appreciate the diverse roles that contribute to their educational journey.
11. Katie Woo Rules the School- by Fran Manushkin
Join Katie Woo as she embarks on a new school year and navigates the challenges of friendships, schoolwork, and fitting in. With relatable characters and engaging storytelling, this early chapter book series encourages young readers to embrace their individuality and find their own voice.
12. Frindle- by Andrew Clements
In “Frindle,” fifth-grader Nick Allen creates a new word, “frindle,” and sparks a language revolution in his school. This humorous and thought-provoking novel explores the power of words, creativity, and the impact of one person’s actions.
13. Have the Best Day Ever!- by Kaitlyn McCarty
This delightful picture book follows a diverse group of children as they navigate a day at school filled with learning, laughter, and discovery. With charming illustrations and relatable experiences, it captures the joy and excitement of a positive school day.
14. Our Class is a Family- by Shannon Olsen
“Our Class is a Family” celebrates the strong sense of community and inclusivity that can be found in a classroom. Through colorful illustrations and gentle text, this book emphasizes kindness, empathy, and the importance of treating one another like family.
15. The Circles All Around- by Brad Montague
“The Circles All Around” is a whimsical picture book that encourages children to explore their creativity and embrace their unique talents. It celebrates the joy of learning, collaboration, and the endless possibilities that can be found within a school community.
16. A Letter From Your Teacher: On the First Day of School” by Shannon Olsen
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In this heartwarming picture book, a teacher writes a letter to their students, expressing excitement for the new school year and highlighting the adventures that lie ahead. This book reassures children, eases first-day anxieties, and fosters a positive connection between teachers and students.
17. First Day in Grapes- by L. King Perez
“First Day in Grapes” follows Chico, a young boy who moves with his family to a new town, where they work as migrant farm workers. Through Chico’s perspective, readers learn about resilience, the value of education, and the power of empathy and understanding.
18. “8 Class Pets + 1 Squirrel ÷ 1 Dog = Chaos- by Vivian Vande Velde
In this humorous chapter book, a hamster named Twitch accidentally gets out of his cage and causes chaos in the school. Follow the hilarious escapades as the students and teachers work together to catch Twitch before chaos reigns forever.
19. The Magical Yet- by Angela DiTerlizzi
“The Magical Yet” is a charming picture book that encourages perseverance and a growth mindset. It follows a young girl who faces challenges at school but discovers the power of believing in herself and embracing the “yet” in her abilities.
20. Nasreen’s Secret School: A True Story from Afghanistan- by Jeanette Winter
Based on a true story, “Nasreen’s Secret School” tells the tale of a young girl in Afghanistan who yearns for an education during a time when girls were not allowed to attend school. This poignant book highlights the courage, resilience, and the transformative power of education.
21. Your Name Is a Song- by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow
“Your Name Is a Song” is a beautiful picture book that celebrates the beauty and musicality of names from diverse cultures. Through poetic text and vibrant illustrations, it encourages children to appreciate the richness and significance of their names while fostering inclusivity and respect for others’ names.
22. The Truth About My Unbelievable Summer” by Davide Cali and Benjamin Chaud
In this imaginative and humorous picture book, a young boy spins an incredible tale about his summer adventures, from encountering pirates to riding dinosaurs. It’s a fun-filled story that captures the excitement and creativity of childhood storytelling.
23. My WILD First Day of School- by Stuart J. Murphy
Join Buddy as he embarks on his first day of school and encounters unexpected animal visitors in his classroom. This lively math-themed picture book introduces counting, patterns, and problem-solving in a playful and engaging way.
24. I Got the School Spirit- by Connie Schofield-Morrison and Frank Morrison
“I Got the School Spirit” celebrates the enthusiasm and positive attitude of a young girl on her first day of school. Through rhythmic text and vibrant illustrations, it captures the energy, joy, and anticipation of a new school year.
25. Dog Days: The Carver Chronicles- by Karen English
In this chapter book series, readers follow the adventures of Gavin and his friends at Carver Elementary. From navigating friendships to overcoming challenges, this relatable story highlights the ups and downs of school life with warmth and humor.
26. The King of Kindergarten- by Derrick Barnes and Vanessa Brantley-Newton
“The King of Kindergarten” tells the story of a confident young boy as he embarks on his first day of kindergarten. With lively illustrations and empowering text, it encourages children to embrace their abilities, build friendships, and approach new experiences with courage.
27. The Day You Begin- by Jacqueline Woodson and Rafael López
“The Day You Begin” is a poignant picture book that celebrates diversity, individuality, and the courage to be oneself. Through lyrical text and stunning artwork, it explores the emotions and challenges children may face when starting school while promoting empathy and understanding.
28. Harry Versus the First 100 Days of School” by Emily Jenkins and Pete Oswald
In this humorous early chapter book, Harry faces various challenges and adventures during his first 100 days of school. With playful illustrations and relatable situations, it highlights the milestones and experiences that make the school year special.
29. You’re Finally Here!- by Mélanie Watt
“You’re Finally Here!” is a hilarious and interactive picture book that follows an impatient bunny who eagerly awaits the arrival of the reader. With clever illustrations and witty dialogue, it engages young readers and captures the excitement of connecting with new friends at school.
30. My Mouth Is A Volcano” by Julia Cook and Carrie Hartman
In this relatable picture book, Louis has trouble controlling his impulsive outbursts, especially at school. With humor and empathy, it teaches children the importance of waiting for their turn to speak and respecting others’ conversations and ideas.
31. Be Big!: Beatrice’s First Day of First Grade- by Alexis Deacon
“Be Big!” follows Beatrice as she navigates her first day of first grade and discovers the power of being herself. With charming illustrations and a heartwarming message, it encourages children to embrace their uniqueness, be kind, and believe in their abilities.
These enchanting back-to-school books for elementary kids provide engaging stories that entertain, educate, and inspire. From celebrating diversity and overcoming first-day jitters to embracing uniqueness and appreciating school community, these books offer valuable lessons that will resonate with young readers. Make the start of the school year an adventure by diving into these delightful stories and igniting a love for reading and learning.
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