Perfect Books for Back To School
You don’t need to give me another reason to read, but when it comes to starting a new school year, it gets me pumped for more books!
I’ve made a short list of books that inspire my kids (and myself) in all of the emotions and changes that come with the first day of school, starting a new school, moving up a grade, or simply navigating challenges within those walls.
Below you will see my favorite in each category – picture books and chapter books. However, if you want to get my Back To Class Books resource (as well as a smattering of more free resources), you can sign up for access to our Tool Box HERE.
PICTURE BOOKS
It was so hard to choose an all-time favorite in the picture book category. There are tons of “first day of school” books but I think general classroom-related books are also important. So I picked one of each.
“First Day Critter Jitters”
“First Day Critter Jitters” is a reassuring and funny picture book written by Jory John and illustrated by Liz Climo. It follows a handful of adorable animals preparing and enduring their first day of school, each with their own set of apprehensions and revelations. Every child (and adult) will see themselves in at least one of the creatures.
You can check it out as a read aloud on our YouTube channel HERE.
“Miss Nelson is Missing!”
This is a classic book and the first in a series written by Harry Allard and illustrated by James Marshall. Miss Nelson is the nicest teacher at the school, but her class is always misbehaving. But when she goes missing, they end up with their strict substitute, Viola Swamp. Oh, how they wish Miss Nelson would come back!
CHAPTER BOOKS
These books can be read aloud to a class as well as enjoyed by individual readers. And yes, there are also two favorites.
“Diary of a Wimpy Kid”
In this book written and illustrated by Jeff Kinney, readers will learn all about Greg Heffley and how he imagines he navigates middle school and how he actually does. Donein a diary style with lined pages, doodles, and all.
“The Year of Miss Agnes”
“The Year of Miss Agnes” is an award-winning children’s historical fiction novel written by former Alaskan bush teacher, Kirkpatrick Hill. It follows a ten-year-old Frederika (Fred) as she awaits a new teacher in her remote Alaskan village where education is scarce and tradition is strong. It is truly a beautiful story and opens up a world of learning and what it really means for everyone.
Looking for more? Get my Back To Class Books resource by signing up for access to our Tool Box HERE.
Want more info on the curriculum we’ve created to use with these supplies? Follow us on Teachers Pay Teachers, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook.