Books on Back To School: Discover the Top 20 List (2024)

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The First Day of School

by Margaret McNamara

The First Day of School by Margaret McNamara is a heartwarming book on back to school that follows the experiences of a little girl named Sarah as she prepares for her first day of kindergarten. Sarah is nervous about meeting new friends and adjusting to a new routine, but with the help of her supportive family, she gains the confidence to face the unknown. The story is filled with relatable emotions and captures the excitement, anxiety, and anticipation that often accompany the first day of school.

Through delightful illustrations and simple yet impactful storytelling, this book about back to school offers reassurance to young readers who may be feeling apprehensive about starting a new school year. The gentle narrative and charming artwork make it a wonderful choice for parents and teachers to read with children as they prepare for the back to school season. The First Day of School is a timeless back to school book that celebrates the universal experience of embarking on a new adventure.

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The Pout-Pout Fish Goes to School

by Deborah Diesen

The Pout-Pout Fish Goes to School is a delightful children’s book about a fish named Mr. Fish who is nervous about starting school. As he swims to school, he worries about fitting in and making friends. With the help of his supportive teacher and new classmates, Mr. Fish learns that school is a fun and welcoming place. The story is filled with colorful illustrations and catchy rhymes that will captivate young readers as they follow Mr. Fish’s journey of self-discovery and acceptance. This heartwarming book about back to school captures the anxieties and excitement that many children experience when beginning a new school year. It’s a perfect read for parents and teachers looking to ease children’s fears and build anticipation for the upcoming school year. The Pout-Pout Fish Goes to School is a must-have for any child’s back to school book collection, as it encourages positivity and resilience in the face of new experiences.

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We Don’t Eat Our Classmates

by Ryan T. Higgins

We Don’t Eat Our Classmates by Ryan T. Higgins is a delightful back to school book that follows the story of Penelope, a dinosaur who is starting school. Penelope is excited to make new friends, but there’s just one problem – she can’t seem to stop eating her classmates! As Penelope struggles to control her dinosaur instincts, she learns important lessons about empathy, friendship, and the importance of treating others with kindness.

This book on back to school is a heartwarming and hilarious tale that will resonate with children and parents alike. Ryan T. Higgins’ charming illustrations bring the story to life, and his clever use of humor makes this book a joy to read aloud. With its relatable themes and lovable characters, We Don’t Eat Our Classmates is the perfect choice for easing any first-day jitters and starting important conversations about empathy and understanding. This back to school book is a must-have addition to any child’s library, and it’s sure to become a cherished favorite for years to come.

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The Name Jar

by Yangsook Choi

The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi is a heartwarming picture book about a young girl named Unhei who has just moved to the United States from Korea. She is nervous about starting at a new school and is unsure about sharing her Korean name with her classmates. Unhei decides to let her classmates choose a new name for her by placing slips of paper with their suggestions in a jar. As she learns more about the diverse backgrounds of her classmates, Unhei begins to see the value in her own name and heritage.

This book is a fantastic choice for readers who are about to embark on a new school year. It teaches important lessons about identity, acceptance, and the beauty of cultural diversity. The Name Jar is a great conversation starter for discussions about embracing differences and making new friends. With its colorful illustrations and relatable story, this book is a perfect addition to any collection of books about starting a new school year.

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The King of Kindergarten

by Derrick Barnes

The King of Kindergarten by Derrick Barnes is a heartwarming and empowering book about back to school that follows a young boy as he embarks on his first day of kindergarten. With vibrant illustrations by Vanessa Brantley-Newton, this book captures the excitement, nervousness, and joy of starting a new school year.

Readers will follow along as the young protagonist confidently navigates through the hallways, makes new friends, and embraces all the new experiences that come with being a kindergartener. The story celebrates the young boy’s confidence and positive attitude as he tackles new challenges with a sense of pride and determination.

With its positive message and affirming portrayal of the first day of school, The King of Kindergarten is the perfect book on back to school for young children who may be feeling apprehensive about starting a new grade. It encourages readers to approach new experiences with courage, kindness, and a royal spirit.

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School’s First Day of School

by Adam Rex

School’s First Day of School by Adam Rex is a delightful and charming book about back to school that takes a unique perspective on the first day of school jitters. In this endearing story, readers follow the nervous yet curious school building, named Frederick Douglass Elementary, as it prepares for the arrival of students on the first day of school.

With charming illustrations by Christian Robinson, this back to school book captures the emotions and experiences of both the school and the students as they navigate the excitement and uncertainty of the first day. The school building itself is a relatable and endearing character, making the story both heartwarming and humorous.

Through its fresh and imaginative approach, School’s First Day of School offers a unique perspective on the familiar experience of starting a new school year, making it a perfect addition to any collection of books on back to school. Young readers and adults alike will find themselves enchanted by this clever and heartwarming story that celebrates the magic of new beginnings.

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The Day You Begin

by Jacqueline Woodson

The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson is a heartwarming book about back to school that beautifully captures the feeling of being different and the courage it takes to share your true self. The story follows a group of students who feel like outsiders as they navigate the first day of school. As they share their unique experiences and perspectives, they begin to realize that they are not alone in their feelings of fear and uncertainty.

With lyrical prose and evocative illustrations by Rafael López, this back to school book celebrates diversity, empathy, and the power of finding connection in the face of differences. The Day You Begin is a poignant reminder that our differences are what make us special, and that sharing our stories can bring us closer together. This is a must-read for anyone, young or old, who has ever felt like they didn’t quite fit in.

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The Invisible Boy

by Trudy Ludwig

The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig is a heartwarming book about back to school that explores themes of friendship, kindness, and inclusion. The story follows a boy named Brian, who often feels invisible and left out at school. Through beautiful illustrations and thoughtful storytelling, the book highlights the impact of small acts of kindness and empathy. When a new student arrives at school, Brian’s kindness and creativity help him connect with the new student and feel seen for the first time. This back to school book is a powerful reminder of the importance of reaching out to others and the positive impact it can have on both the giver and the receiver. With its relatable characters and important message, The Invisible Boy is a must-read for children heading back to school and a valuable resource for parents and educators looking to foster empathy and inclusivity in their communities.

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The Kissing Hand

by Audrey Penn

The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn is a heartwarming back to school book that follows the story of a young raccoon named Chester. Chester is nervous about starting school and leaving his mother behind. To reassure him, his mother shares a special family tradition called the Kissing Hand. She kisses his palm and tells him that whenever he feels scared or lonely, he can press his hand to his cheek and feel her love. This tender story beautifully captures the emotions and anxieties that children often experience when starting school, making it a wonderful book about back to school.

Readers will be drawn in by the charming illustrations and the message of unconditional love and support. The Kissing Hand is a perfect read for parents and children to share as they navigate the transition to a new school year. It’s a timeless tale that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt reluctant about facing a new adventure.

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The Berenstain Bears Go to School

by Stan and Jan Berenstain

The Berenstain Bears Go to School by Stan and Jan Berenstain is a delightful book on back to school that follows the beloved bear family as they prepare for the start of a new school year. Brother and Sister Bear are filled with excitement, nervousness, and curiosity as they embark on their school adventure. Through the charming illustrations and engaging storytelling, young readers will relate to the bears’ experiences and emotions, making it a perfect book about back to school for children who are about to start school or for those who are already familiar with the school routine.

The Berenstain Bears Go to School is a heartwarming back to school book that not only captures the anticipation and jitters of the first day of school but also imparts valuable lessons about friendship, kindness, and the importance of education. With its timeless themes and lovable characters, this book is a must-have for any child’s library, especially during the transition from summer to the new school year.

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Wemberly Worried

by Kevin Henkes

Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes is a heartwarming and relatable book about back to school. The story follows a little mouse named Wemberly who is constantly worried about everything, especially starting school. As she navigates through her fears and anxieties, she learns valuable lessons about friendship, bravery, and finding the courage to face her worries.

Henkes’ delightful illustrations and simple yet poignant storytelling make Wemberly Worried a perfect choice for young readers who may be feeling anxious about the upcoming school year. The book beautifully captures the universal experience of feeling nervous and apprehensive about new situations, making it a fantastic back to school book for children of all ages. Wemberly Worried is a timeless and reassuring tale that teaches the importance of overcoming fears and embracing new experiences, making it a must-read for anyone feeling a little jittery about starting school.

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The Teacher from the Black Lagoon

by Mike Thaler

The Teacher from the Black Lagoon is a delightful back-to-school book that follows the wild and imaginative fears of a young student as he anticipates the arrival of his new teacher. The story, written by Mike Thaler, uses humor and exaggerated illustrations to depict the young boy’s over-the-top worries about what his new teacher will be like. With vivid and entertaining artwork by Jared Lee, this back-to-school book brings to life the young boy’s hilarious imagination as he envisions his teacher as a terrifying monster from the depths of the black lagoon. As the young student’s imagination runs wild, readers are taken on a fun and relatable journey that ultimately reveals the truth about the teacher from the black lagoon. This engaging and humorous back-to-school book is perfect for young readers who may have their own fears and worries about the new school year, making it a must-read for anyone looking for a light-hearted and entertaining back-to-school story.

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Miss Nelson Is Missing!

by Harry Allard

Miss Nelson Is Missing! is a delightful book about back to school that follows the mischievous students of Room 207. When their sweet and kind teacher, Miss Nelson, goes missing, the class is left with a strict and mean substitute, Miss Viola Swamp. The students quickly realize how much they miss their beloved teacher and set out on a mission to find her. With humorous illustrations and a heartwarming storyline, this back to school book teaches children about the value of appreciating their teachers and the importance of good behavior in the classroom. Harry Allard’s witty writing and James Marshall’s charming illustrations make this book a timeless classic that both kids and adults will enjoy. Miss Nelson Is Missing! is the perfect book on back to school to read to children as they prepare to return to the classroom, reminding them to cherish their teachers and the fun of learning together.

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The Dot

by Peter H. Reynolds

The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds is a heartwarming and inspiring story about a young girl named Vashti who believes she can’t draw. When her teacher encourages her to just make a mark and see where it takes her, Vashti creates a simple dot on a piece of paper. Little does she know that this small dot will lead her on a journey of self-discovery and artistic exploration. As Vashti’s confidence grows, she begins to embrace her creativity and even inspires others to do the same. This beautifully illustrated book is a celebration of the power of self-expression and the importance of embracing one’s unique talents. The Dot is a perfect addition to any collection of books about back to school, as it encourages children to believe in themselves and to not be afraid to take risks. It’s a wonderful reminder that everyone has the potential to create something amazing, no matter how small their starting point may be.

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Chrysanthemum

by Kevin Henkes

Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes is a heartwarming and relatable story about a little mouse with a big name. Chrysanthemum loves her unique name until she starts school and encounters teasing from her classmates. As she struggles to find her confidence, she learns valuable lessons about self-acceptance, friendship, and the power of individuality.

This charming book about starting school is filled with colorful illustrations and a touching storyline that will resonate with readers of all ages. It’s a perfect choice for parents and educators looking for a back to school book that addresses the challenges of fitting in and finding one’s place in a new environment. The themes of bullying, self-esteem, and the importance of being true to oneself are beautifully portrayed in this timeless classic. Chrysanthemum is a must-read for anyone who has ever felt different or struggled with their own identity, making it an essential addition to any library or classroom collection.

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The School Story

by Andrew Clements

The School Story by Andrew Clements is a captivating book about back to school that follows two friends, Natalie and Zoe, as they embark on a creative journey to get Natalie’s novel published. When Natalie writes a novel and shares it with her best friend Zoe, they come up with a plan to get it published without anyone knowing that Natalie is just a middle school student. With Zoe’s help, Natalie sends her manuscript to a publishing house under a pseudonym and eventually gets a book deal. As they navigate the challenges of keeping the secret from adults, the girls also discover the power of determination and the importance of friendship. The back to school book is filled with humor, relatable characters, and an inspiring story that will resonate with young readers. The School Story is a delightful and empowering read that celebrates the creativity and ambition of middle school students.

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The Year of Billy Miller

by Kevin Henkes

The Year of Billy Miller by Kevin Henkes is a heartwarming and delightful book about back to school that follows the adventures of Billy Miller, a second grader, as he navigates through the ups and downs of the school year. The story is divided into four short tales, each representing a different season of the year, and captures the essence of growing up, making friends, and facing new challenges.

Readers will find themselves relating to Billy’s experiences, from dealing with a teacher he’s not sure about to finding the courage to perform in a school play. Henkes’ writing is engaging and insightful, and the illustrations add a charming touch to the story, making it a perfect back to school book for young readers.

The Year of Billy Miller is a heartwarming and relatable story that captures the essence of childhood and the experiences that come with it, making it a perfect read for anyone looking for a book on back to school that is both entertaining and meaningful.

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First Day Jitters

by Julie Danneberg

First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg is a heartwarming and relatable picture book about the nervousness and excitement that comes with starting a new school year. The story follows Sarah Jane Hartwell, a young girl who is feeling extremely anxious about her first day at a new school. She is so nervous that she doesn’t even want to get out of bed. Her husband and the bus driver both encourage her to go, but she is still nervous about her first day jitters.

Readers will empathize with Sarah’s fears and worries as she navigates through her first day at her new school. The twist at the end of the story, when Sarah Jane is revealed to be the new teacher, will surprise and delight young readers. This book is perfect for children who are anxious about starting a new school year and provides a comforting and humorous look at the experience of starting fresh. First Day Jitters is a must-read for anyone looking for a fun and relatable book about the challenges of the first day of school.

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The Homework Machine

by Dan Gutman

The Homework Machine by Dan Gutman is a captivating book about back to school that follows the story of four unlikely friends who create a machine to do their homework for them. As the machine becomes more successful, the friends must navigate the consequences of their secret and the ethical dilemmas that arise. Told through the perspectives of each character, the novel explores themes of friendship, honesty, and the pressures of school. With a mix of humor and suspense, Gutman’s story will keep young readers engaged and entertained as they return to the classroom. This back to school book is a delightful and thought-provoking read that will surely resonate with students and spark discussions about the challenges of school and the value of hard work.

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The One and Only Ivan

by Katherine Applegate

The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate is a heartwarming and captivating story that follows the journey of Ivan, a silverback gorilla living in a shopping mall. Told from Ivan’s perspective, the novel explores his longing for freedom and his determination to protect the ones he loves. When a baby elephant named Ruby arrives at the mall, Ivan’s world is turned upside down as he forms a deep bond with her and realizes the importance of standing up for what is right.

This compelling book about returning to school is not only a tale of friendship and bravery but also a powerful commentary on animal rights and the impact of captivity. Through its beautiful prose and poignant storytelling, The One and Only Ivan teaches valuable lessons about empathy, compassion, and the true meaning of family. It is a perfect addition to any reading list for students heading back to school, offering a thought-provoking and memorable experience that will stay with readers long after they turn the final page.

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