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The sight of a yellow school bus clambering down the road, the sounds of laughter on neighborhood school playground, and the smell of freshly-sharpened pencils can only mean one thing: it’s back to school time!
Whether your young reader is excited or nervous—or a little bit of both!—these outstanding back to school books strike the perfect chord for a harmonious first day of school.
All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold, illustrated by Suzanne Kaufman A group of young students learn that in their school, everyone belongs.
Butterflies on the First Day of School
by Annie Silvestro, illustrated by Dream Chen
Rosie has butterflies in her belly on the first day of school, but when she greets a classmate, the butterflies escape! A sweet tale about letting go of worry and embracing wonder and friendship.
The Day You Begin
by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by Rafael López
A celebration of the ways that finding our voice and sharing our own unique stories leads us to find others who are share those stories too.
I’m New Here
by Anne Sibley O’Brien
For some students, the first day of school is also the first day of school in a brand-new country. Three immigrant students find their place in a new community.
It’s Your First Day of School, Busy Bus!
by Jodi Jensen Shaffer, illustrated by Claire Messer
It’s the first day of school for your school bus too! Busy Bus is nervous about a new route and new friends, but Driver Ben is there to help his friend face the new school year with excitement.
The King of Kindergarten
by Derrick Barnes, illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton
An empowering exploration of a young boy’s confident approach to his day of kindergarten.
Lena’s Shoes Are Nervous
by Keith Calabrese, illustrated by Juana Medina
Lena is excited for the first day of school, but her shoes aren’t so certain about trying something new.
Mae’s First Day of School
by Kate Berube
When Mae announces she is not going to school today, her family and school community find ways to gently give her the time she needs to summon her courage.
This Is My Home, This Is My School
by Jonathan Bean
A day in the life of a homeschooling family, this book celebrates the unique learning that takes place in our homes and the wider world.
Truman
by Jane Reidy, illustrated by Lucy Ruth Cummins
When Truman’s best friend goes to school for the first time, Truman departs on his own first adventure to find her. A tale of courage in the face of the impossible.
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Thanks for including It’s Your First Day of School, Busy Bus!, Jess! Happy new school year!