I am so excited to share our absolute favorite,
Best Back to School Picture Books Read Aloud!
These fun, imaginative books filled with heart will spark children's creativity, build up their confidence, ease first day of school jitters, and empower them to first and foremost be themselves.
Parents and teachers alike will love these masterfully written and beautifully illustrated picture books. Perfect for read aloud both at home and in the classroom, these are books children will want to read again and again.
This post is all about:
The Best Back To School Picture Books to Read Aloud!
HAPPY READING!!!
Best Back to School
Picture Books to Read Aloud
Oh how we love and cherish a good picture book. Filled with humor, beautiful art and lively characters kids can relate to, a picture book can inspire, empower, and uplift. It is read again and again, often memorized, becoming a treasured part of a family's library and childhood memories. Picking the right book to read to your child or students is as important as reading with them is.
Picture books read aloud. We have carefully selected 21 fantastic picture books to read aloud as the new school year begins. From new releases to old time favorites, the below selection of books has something for everyone. All are tried and true stories, masterfully written and beautifully illustrated, sure to delight little ones and care givers alike, as well as become an annual back to school tradition. Though, this is in no way a comprehensive list, it include my and my children's favorites and we hope that you may find your own favorite among them.
If there is one lesson, we can all use is how to fail without giving up. In a world, so focused on perfection, Rosie J. Pova's relatable characters shine in their attempts to succeed, failing time and time again on their way up. In The School of Failure, it is each failed attempt that becomes a steppingstone bringing this group of fairy tale rejects, closer and closer to success.
This truly magical story, masterfully crafted by award winning-author Rosie J. Pova and beautifully illustrated by award winning author and illustrator Monika Filipina is perfect not only as a back to school read aloud, but for reading any time you need a reminder that "you don't have to be perfect to be your best." Kids, parents, and educators will LOVE this fantastic story.
If I Built a School
Written & Illustrated by Chris Van Dusen
Chris Van Dusen's imaginative and fun books never fall short of spectacular and If I Built a School is no exception. If you have never read his "If I Built a..." books, be sure to check them out. The stories are funny, the rhyming brilliant and the illustrations fantastic. A must read back to school book, If I Built a School is a celebration of children's creativity, STEM concepts and the idea of dreaming big.
Picture books read aloud. Don't be surprised if you have to read this book many times over, and your kids get busy building their own versions of the perfect school right after. Jack's description of the school he would build takes the reader on an adventure. From the hoover desks, Zoo and books that come to life, to the robo-chef, hologram guests, and field trips to Mars this is a journey you won't soon forget. And the expression of the teacher's face on the last spread is just priceless. 🙂
I love the message that a school is more than just a building, but a community. It is a place to learn and grow. A place of hope and healing. John Schu's debut picture book This is a School, pulls on the heart strings with a story that is so important for children to hear. Who wouldn't want to go to a place where all voices are heard and where everyone and everything grows.
Beautifully illustrated by Veronica Miller Jamison, the book includes a poster teachers can use in their classrooms. The school is inviting and welcoming. It is a place of hope and healing for a community of learners and educators who genuinely care for each other. A beautiful introduction to what a school is and should be for children about to take their first steps through the school doors and an excellent reminder for those returning for a new school year.
The Day You Begin written by Jaqueline Woodson and illustrated by Rafael Lopez is a perfect back to school read aloud pick. The book starts with a powerful opening that pulls on the heartstrings immediately. "There will be times when you walk into a room and no one there is quite like you." Who of us cannot relate to the feeling of being in a new environment or being the odd one out? Whether 5 or 50 this thought-provoking and inspiring story will surely touch your heart.
Brilliant illustrations accompany a story about self-acceptance, courage, building friendships and new beginnings. Brilliant illustrations offer an activity you can do with the children. Have them look for the rulers on each spread, symbolizing how we measure ourselves against others. Kids will learn that although we are all different in our own unique ways, the day we open up and begin sharing our stories, we find out just how much we have in common.
As a mother of children whose names are constantly misspelled and mispronounced, I found Jamila Thompkins-Bigelow's story Your Name is a Song fascinating and gratifying. What a wonderful way to describe the beauty of our names. I would say that this is a must read for anyone living in a diverse world, which is everyone these days, whether their name has a unique pronunciation or not.
At the end names a big part of our identity, culture, and ancestry. Your Name is a Song is a story about diversity, acceptance, respect and most importantly about being brave to be you. Beautiful illustrations by Luisa Uribe make this lyrical text truly jump off the page and leap straight into our hearts. Complete with "Glossary of Names" which lists each name’s meaning, origin, and pronunciation at the end of the book this is a treasure both for classroom and home libraries.
Fun rhymes, beautiful illustrations, a true celebration of diversity and inclusion. All children deserve and should be able to see themselves represented in books. All Are Welcome Here, written by Alexandra Penfold and illustrated by Suzanne Kaufman does just that.
The story follows a group of children through a day of school activities, where everyone is welcomed with open arms. A school where students grow and learn from each other's traditions and celebrate each other's difference. All Are Welcome makes a great back to school read and lets young children know that no matter what, they have a place and are welcome in their school.
Llama Llama Misses Mama
Written & Illustrated by Anna Dewdney
We absolutely LOVE the Lama Lama books by Anna Dewdney and it all started with Lama Lama Misses Mama. Perfect for children with separation anxiety, wmy son being one of them. He would cry to the point of making himself sick and school would call me to pick him up early. After we read this heartwarming story, he felt understood. His feelings were real, valid and he saw himself in little Lama. We read the story every night for weeks and it became a tradition to read every year for back to school.
I will never forget that first day after we read the book, he didn't have to be picked up early and when it was time to go home and as he saw me, he ran for a hug and excited quoted the book: "Mama Mama, you came back!!!" The story emphasizes little Llama’s real emotions, which children can relate to - feeling very sad and not wanting to play to feeling happy and having fun.
It is the first day of preschool and Lama Lama is not liking that Mama Lama has to leave. Lama is feeling new, sad, and is not enjoying any of the activities, instead is wondering if Mama Lama is ever coming back. As the day goes on, after a brief temper tentrum, not only does Lama Lama realize that Mama comes back, but also that negativity only robs you from the joy of making new friends, reading new books and playing new games.
Here is another fantastic story about turning the negative into positive. The Magical Yet written by Angela DiTerlizzi is fun and inspirational rhyming picture book for every child who is frustrated by what they can't do...YET! It illustrates how with practice we can all learn and grow, encouraging children who may be otherwise hesitant to try new things for fear of failure.
The Magical Yet is perfect for read aloud and an excellent tool for parents and educators when helping children cope with difficult learning moments they would most certainly face. Beautifully illustrated by Lorena Alvarez, this is an encouraging and uplifting story reminds us that no matter where you are on your journey, the best is Yet to come.
We Don't Eat Our Classmates
Written & Illustrated by Ryan T. Higgins
We Don't Eat Our Classmates by award winning author and illustrator Ryan Higgins is one of the funniest and most endearing books I've read recently. This #1 New York Times best seller does not disappoint. Kids will laugh out loud as they follow Penelope's first day at school and witness her predicament as she finds out that all her classmates are human.
Absolutely fantastic illustrations, clever delivery and relatable character kids will root for, make this a favorite picture book for kids, parents and educators. We Don't Eat Our Classmates is without a doubt one of those books that you will be reading again and again. It explores themes like empathy, personal growth, self-reflection, friendship, and strength of character. This fantastic story is full of surprises and will delight young readers.
New York Times bestselling author Kelly Corrigan delivers a powerful message of acceptance and diversity in her brilliant picture book Hello World! She writes a story the celebrates the people in our lives and the meaningful connections we make. Fun illustrations by Stacy Ebert further depict in fantastic details our need for community.
I think after the last couple of years we are all well too aware of how essential it is to be among loved ones. I especially love this story because when growing up I was criticized for asking a lot of questions. Kelly Corrigan's beautiful story encourages children to be inquisitive and brave, which is essential for every child embarking on a new journey.
Principle Tate is Running Late
Written & Illustrated by Henry Cole
It could hardly be a surprise that our next selection made it on our best back to school picture books read aloud. The fun title and cover design alone will bring a smile to any child about to begin a new school year or even already in the middle of one. Henry Cole's lively text and illustrations are such an adventure that Principal Tate is Running Late is sure to become a family and classroom favorite.
With the Principle running late students, teachers and parents must find a way to work together, making sure the day runs smoothly. Taking initiative, helping, teamwork, loyalty to name a few are all themes kids are introduced to in a book full of humor and heart.
Little Yellow Bus
Written by Erin Guendelsbereger
Illustrated by Suzie Mason
Little Yellow Bus tells a story of bravery, first day jitters and the adventure that awaits even when we are nervous about what lies ahead. This newly released picture book masterfully written by Erin Guendelsberger and illustrated by Suzie Mason comes right in time for back-to-school story time. This book is also a fantastic example of personification that can be used as a teaching resource.
Little Yellow Bus has been preparing for this day for so long, but the excitement of picking up children and driving them to school all by himself is clouded by his anxiety and fears of messing up. Erin Guendelsberger delivers a powerful message about the importance of believing in ourselves. A heartwarming, sweet story definitely worth the read.
Benny the Brave in The First Day Jitters
Written by Julie Ann Penn & Darren Penn
Illustrated by Sergio De Giorgi
Here is another first day jitters read aloud story, this time for those who love Super Heroes. Benny The Brave comes to the rescue in this fun Team Super Crew series book. Benny the Brave in the First Day Jitters written by Julie Ann Penn and Darren Penn tells the story of Sarah, who is anxious about starting a new school.
Sergio De Giorgi's beautiful and detailed illustrations bring this story to life as we see Benny the Brave help Sarah find the power to be BRAVE within her. It's ok to be scared, but we can always find the strength to move forward with positive thinking. Benny the Brave in the First Day Jitters is a great reminder that we all have a superhero within us ready to come out.
I love this next story so much. New York Times bestselling author Christina Geist hit the nail on the head with her brilliant picture book Sorry, Grown-Ups You Can't Go To School! And how hilarious are Tim Bowers illustrations? There is so much to love about this warm, fun, and encouraging story.
Dad can tie his own shoes, mom has her backpack ready, even Bow-wow is eager to join in the fun, but school is just for kids and teachers. What a clever way to ease children's anxieties about school and get them excited about being independent and a part of an exclusive "club" where grown-ups are not allowed, and kids can have all the fun.
The Pigeon Has to Go to School
Written & Illustrated by Mo Willems
No back-to-school picture books list would be complete without a book by award winning, New York Times best-selling author and illustrator Mo Willems. His brilliant series are LOVED and adored by children. Not surprising he has done it again with this witty, funny and adorable story.
The Pigeon Goes To School has us following along Pigeons emotional journey as he faces his fears on the first day of school. He is worried about such scary things as his teacher not liking him or him learning too much. This lively, delightful story is perfect for back to school read aloud and will have you laughing and giggling as you follow Pigeon's journey.
When it comes to best picture books to read aloud The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn has been a favorite back to school read since 1993 and for a good reason. Perfect for separation anxiety you and you children will love this one. The Forest School is opening its doors for a new school year, but Chester Raccoon is hesitant to go. To reassure young Chester's, Mrs. Raccoon shares a family secret called the Kissing Hand, a symbol and a promise he is loved and cherished.
Since its first publication, this beautiful book has become a children's classic and an instant favorite among children, parents and educators. Lovely illustrations by Ruth E. Harper and Nancy M. Leak combined with the masterfully written text tug on the heartstrings. This is a story about love, kindness, compassion, empathy and the bond between a child and a parent. Complete with bonus stickers in the back The Kissing Hand is the perfect choice for both home and school libraries.
Julie Danneberg's lovely picture book The First Day Jitters is without a doubt a back-to-school favorite. I love the story and adore the clever, detailed, and fun illustrations by Judy Love. The cat and the dog are absolute delight and kids are sure to enjoy this picture book when read aloud. For Sarah this is not just the first day at school but one at a new school. The jitters take over and she does not want to go.
Reluctantly she is persuaded to go to and has to face her fears and make new friends despite being worried that they may not like her. This is a great story to ease the first day jitters and has a beautiful, surprising, and satisfying ending. First Day Jitters has the perfect picture book read aloud story. Complete with a Certificate of Courage for First Day Completion and a First Day Memories Sheet this book will make a great addition to classroom libraries.
When talking about children's favorite books Laura Numeroff's If You Take a Mouse To School is right up there on top of their list. Both you and your children will have a blast reading this. Brilliant illustrations by Felicia Bond, fantastic writing, great rhythm, and plenty of surprises along the way.
Kids will laugh out loud as they try to guess what else the Mouse will come up with next. Very clever story, that you will end up reading many, many, many times and kids will end up memorizing most of it. Fun read that will get them excited about school and sure to get them fall in love with reading.
While technically Rain Before Rainbows is not known as a back-to-school book I strongly recommend it as such. Once you read it you will see why. Beautiful, uplifting, encouraging story. Excellent rhymes making it a perfect picture book read aloud text by Smitri Halls with absolutely breath-taking illustrations by David Litchfield.
There are mountains for climbing. Journeys to take.
Dreams that are hopeful. Decisions to make....
But…there are footsteps to follow and words that are wise.
There’s a map that will guide us when troubles arise.
One of my all-time favorite picture books read aloud texts you can read it any time of the year of course, but starting school is embarking on a new journey and Rain Before Rainbow is an absolute MUST read. A story full of heart about new beginnings, courage, change, wisdom and hope. I am sure you and your family or class will treasure this poetic journey to a bright new day.
Here is a treasure of a book for the artists at heart. Stunning illustrations by Mike Curato and inspiring, lyrical text by Samantha Berger encourage creativity, self-expression and thinking outside the box. If this is not what school is all about, what is? Great year round this book will make a fantastic addition to your back to school read aloud list.
What I love about this story is that no matter the obstacles that come her way, this artistic child finds a way to express herself. No paper or pencils or brushes or pens? No problem. She will turn her world into a canvas. No canvas either? She will sing or dance or dream. Fantastic read you will love.
Rounding the list with one of my all-time favorite books - Wild About Us. Written by Karen Beumont and Illustrated by Caldecott Honor winner Janet Stevens this is a story everyone should read at least ones. Talking about diversity, confidence, and self-esteem in an engaging, heartwarming way. Wild About Us is s story about seeing the beauty in others and ourselves, no matter how different we may be.
It is about realizing that it is our differences that make us special and our world beautiful After all what would the zoo look like if the Zebra didn't have stripes, the Giraffe was ashamed of his height, and flamingo colored his beautiful pink feathers. What kind of a Zoo would it be if they all looked the same? Brilliant and must read.
This post is all about the best back to school picture books read aloud.
We love back to school books, picture books and real aloud books, so when we combine all three it is a celebration of creativity. Our list includes classics, and new releases, along some books that may not be necessary marketed as back to school are perfect for children embarking on this beautiful adventure and will make a great selection for both classroom and home libraries. We sincerely hope you find new favorites and remember old ones as you go through these selections.
