Have you started a school year wondering or searching for the greatest back-to-school storybooks to capture and engage your students? Do you want a list of first day of school books that will entertain, educate and enlighten your primary classroom? I have made a list for you!
As a reading specialist with a background in Children’s Literature, some may say I have a problem. I am ADDICTED to children’s books. I have seven children of my own and my favourite time of the day or night is storytime. Nothing makes this mama happier or finds me in my element more than bringing storybooks to life for children. As a primary teacher, my paycheque should probably be direct deposited into Scholastic or Indigo. You know how many women hide shoes, purses or clothes from their husband – I may be the exception to that rule and I hide books on the bookshelf. (Which is a whole lot easier than hiding a Kate Spade purse – my husband has radar for those!)
When I first begin my school year I read A LOT to my students! I find stories calm them down, make for a great transition between activities and are perfect to begin and end a day. Stories offer more than lessons and morals. These 7 books I am going to share with you I read JUST FOR THE LOVE of LITERATURE! I find when students see how much I love a story – they love it too! So without further ado, here are my top 7 must-read back-to-school stories for my primary classroom. (I have included links to Amazon to find the books but you can find them in Indigo or your local bookstore too!)
1. We don’t eat our Classmates by – Ryan T. Higgins
This adorable story has amazing pictures and makes my class laugh every time!
Synopsis: Penelope Rex is starting school and has a hard time NOT eating her classmates. This makes it hard for her to make friends. This story uses humor and amazing illustrations to deliver a message on how to make (or NOT make) friends at school! But if you think Penelope has uncontrolled urges – Beware of Walter the class pet 😉
Find the book here.
2. You’re Finally Here! by – Melanie Watt
A great story by a superb storyteller! This story is one I like to read on the first day of school to welcome my class! You’re Finally Here is a great book that showcases patience, as you, the reader are late! Where have you been??!! This funny bunny has been impatiently waiting to meet you!
3. Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! by – Mo Willems
It’s a good thing Mo Willems made the Pigeon books into a series because the students always, ALWAYS ask for more! The Pigeon is a fantastic character that lends well to expression both vocal and facial as you read. I love bringing this beloved bird to life as I read. If you want to explore the power of persuasion, this bird is for you!
Find the book here.
4. This is a ball (Books that drive kids crazy!) by – Beck & Matt Stanton
A fun story that keeps the kids on their toes as you read. At first, they think you are reading the story wrong on purpose but as the story moves along they don’t know what to think! This book is best read with a deadpan expression. Don’t let break your narrator’s voice – it will drive your class bananas!
Find the book here.
5. I Want My Hat Back by – Jon Klassen
The only problem with this story is I cannot read it from cover to cover WITHOUT laughing. A silly, fun read. This bear is polite, he is impatient, he simply wants his hat back. Read along to find his hat but where did the rabbit go?
Find the book here.
6. Pete the Cat Rocking in My School Shoes by – Eric Litwin
Back-to-school is not complete without Pete the Cat! This groovy cat rocks his shoes all around the school with a swagger like no other, all while singing his song! **Disclaimer **I will admit I am NOT the best singer. My district did not hire me for my singing talents. Fear not! There are youtube videos that have this song and I usually will play the video after I have read the book. (And usually, there are one (or more) students that will inform me the video was way better LOL)
Find the book here.
7. Stick and Stone by – Beth Ferry
This book is short on words but big on discussion! I like to read this story and discuss friendship. This story is so sweet and it allows students the opportunity to talk about and engage in ways that friendships work and it opens up discussions for anti-bullying.
Find the book here.
I hope this list helps you select books to start your year off right!
