Best Back to School Book
We’re All Wonders by R.J. Palacio
We’re All Wonders is one of my favorite books to read on the first day of school. What better way to start your reading off by enjoying and celebrating your students’ uniqueness!?! I have loved the character Auggie since he first appeared in the chapter book, Wonder. This beloved character teaches your students that even when people look different we all feel the same. We want to be accepted and loved. Grab this book here.
One of my favorite activities to complete this book is to have students explore what makes them all “Wonders”. I take a picture of my students and place their picture in a helmet, similar to the helmet Auggie wears in the book. Then, students write about what makes them unique and special. The best part is this writing activity looks great hanging in the hallway. To see how I implement this book in my class you can read about it here.
First Day of School Books
Officer Buckle and Gloria by Peggy Rathmann
I love to use this book on the first day of school because it helps to reinforce rules and procedures. Students have a great laugh watching Officer Buckle’s dog, Gloria, perform silly shenanigans. But the best part is the discussion you can have with your students after reading this book.
This book is perfect for discussing why there are rules and procedures in place. I like to discuss what are the consequences for not following those rules. An activity I complete with my class when reading this back to school book is have students come up with 3 rules they think we should have in our classroom. Students then have to tell why they think it is important and what would be a consequence for not following that rule. Grab this book here.
Books to Read on the First Day of School
The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig
This first day of school book is one of my newly favorite. I added it to my collection last year. My favorite part is the illustrations. As the character, Brian, starts to feel accepted his picture gradually becomes more colorful. Most of my students didn’t notice this at first. But then when I pointed it out they had plenty of discussions on why the illustrator chose to draw the picture this way.
The Invisible Boy is a great book to share on the first day of school, because it teaches students the importance of inclusion. Students learn that no one likes being left out. This book can lead to great discussions with the classroom on how students can make sure to help others feel accepted. Grab this book here.
Books for Back to School
Miss Nelson is Missing by James Marshall
AHHH, this classic is always a favorite. Throughout the years I have used this book in different ways. Sometimes I read it on the first day of school. And other times I save it for when I know I am going to be out for the first time and my students will have a sub. Just like Officer Buckle and Gloria, this book is great for showing students there are reasons why we have rules. And even when the teacher is away we should always be on our best behavior and use our manners. And the best part, there are many adaptations to this book on YouTube if you would rather show it to your students. Grab this book here.
Books for Back to School
Spaghetti in a Hot Dog Bun by Maria Dismondy
I love this book because of the illustrations. But once I read the story, I was hooked. The character, Lucy, brings in strange foods everyday. The other kids make fun of her for it. Until one day a dilemma happens and they are forced to try her unusual foods. Again, this is a perfect book about acceptance and having the courage to be you. It teaches even though we may all be different we can still show kindness to one another. Grab this book here.
All of these books and more can be found in my Amazon Store. If you want to see what books I share on the first day of school with my 2nd grade and 3rd grade class be sure to follow my Amazon page. I would love to hear what books you read to your students on the first day of school. Leave a comment letting me know. Thank you so much for stopping by and taking a peek.
