Happy August! Hopefully, your summer has been full of family, friends, and fun in the sun! Now, summer isn’t over yet, but that doesn’t mean we can’t prepare ahead. In a few weeks, school will start back up again. You’ll be able to see your friends, your favorite teachers, and still enjoy the rest of the summer while you learn! For some, maybe the idea of going back to school makes you a little nervous, or maybe it’s your first time going to a new grade, new school, or you haven’t made friends yet – and that’s okay! New things can be a little overwhelming sometimes, but know that you aren’t alone, you are brilliant, brave, and you can do hard things. Hopefully, these fun books can get you excited about all things SCHOOL!
Picture books:
The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson; illustrated by Rafael Lopez
This book explores how we all feel a little different sometimes, how being different makes us awesome, and how brave it is that we go forth anyway. Sometimes, when we reach out and begin to share our stories, others will be happy to meet us halfway. Your story matters!
How To Get Your Octopus To School by Becky Scharnhorst; pictures by Jaclyn Sinquett
Just like many little ones, Octopus is nervous about going to school. He would rather stay at home and play, so he finds clever places to hide. Try to find him and help him get to school (calmly!).
The King of Kindergarten by Derrick Barnes; illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton
Kindergarten can be a little scary since it’s new, but with the help of his parents, our friend gathers some confidence and takes on this new experience with courage! Afterward, he can’t wait to tell his proud parents all about his achievements–and then wake up to start another day.
How To Get Your Teacher Ready by Jean Reagan; illustrated by Lee Wildish
Students give tips and tricks for getting a teacher ready—for the first day of school, and all the events and milestones that will follow (picture day, holiday concert, the 100th day of school, field day!). Along the way, children will see that getting their teacher ready is really getting themselves ready.
The Recess Queen by Alexis O’Neill; illustrated by Laura Huliska-Beith
Mean Jean is the playground bully. All of the children are fearful of her. But when Katie Sue is the new student at school, she unknowingly does all of the things that Mean Jean doesn’t like. When Mean Jean attempts to continue her mean streak, Katie Sue instead asks her to play. This act of kindness and inclusion transforms Mean Jean, showing that friendship and understanding can overcome bullying.
School Is Wherever I Am by Ellie Peterson
This book illustrates that learning happens whenever you have an open mind and an open heart.
Middle grade books:
One Kid’s Trash by Jamie Sumner
When his father moves them halfway across Colorado, eleven-year-old Hugo O’Donnell is surprised that his remarkable talent for garbology makes him popular for the first time in his life.
Just Roll With It by Lee Durfey-Lavoie; illustrated by Veronica Agarwal
“Starting middle school is hard enough when you don’t know anyone; it’s even harder when you’re shy. A contemporary middle-grade graphic novel for fans of Guts and Real Friends about how dealing with anxiety and OCD can affect everyday life. As long as Maggie rolls the right number, nothing can go wrong … right? Maggie just wants to get through her first year of middle school. But between finding the best after-school clubs, trying to make friends, and avoiding the rumored monster on school grounds, she’s having a tough time … so she might need a little help from her twenty-sided dice. But what happens if Maggie rolls the wrong number? A touching middle-grade graphic novel that explores the complexity of anxiety, OCD, and learning to trust yourself and the world around you.”
-Provided by Publisher
All’s Faire in Middle School by Victoria Jamieson
Homeschooled by Renaissance Fair enthusiasts, eleven-year-old Imogene has a hard time fitting in when her wish to enroll in public school is granted.
The Boy At The Back Of The Class by Onjali Q. Raúf; illustrated by Pippa Curnick
“When quiet, nine-year-old Ahmet arrives in their classroom, a boy and his friends fail to draw him ou,t but try a new plan after learning he is a Syrian refugee. On the third Tuesday of the school year, a new kid arrives in Mrs. Khan’s class: Ahmet, a Syrian refugee. Everyone is curious about the newcomer – especially since he never smiles and doesn’t talk much either. Still, one student is determined to become his friend and learns that standing up for others has the incredible potential to change an entire community for the better. Packed with humor and heart, Onjali Q. Raúf’s debut novel raises key questions about any refugee crisis and highlights the importance of being an ally. Timely yet timeless, this story encourages kindness and reminds readers that everyone deserves a place to call home.”
-Provided by Publisher
Merci Suárez Changes Gears by Meg Medina
Merci Suárez begins the sixth grade and knows things will change, but she did not count on her grandfather acting strangely, not fitting in at her private school, and dealing with Edna Santos’ jealousy.
EllRay Jakes Stands Tall! by Sally Warner; illustrated by Brian Biggs
Eight-year-old EllRay Jakes, the shortest kid in class and still chosen last at recess, hones his basketball skills with Mr. Havens and earns the respect of his third-grade classmates.
These books range from funny to informative and everything in between to get you school-ready! Remember: you are intelligent, amazing, and capable of anything you set your mind to. I’m already so proud of you! Have a great rest of your summer and stay smart!
