Fresh takes on classic back to school books are my favorite. First day of school nerves are universal. Books that find creative ways to help children work through the anticipation, excitement, and fear the first day, and after they get settled into school. When children can look back and see they conquered a challenge, it builds confidence. Here are my new favorites for back to school.

Back to School with BigFoot- by Martha Brokenbrough

When you are big, hairy, and maybe a little scary, back to school comes with its own special challenges. Bigfoot takes on the challenges, and makes school the best it can be. This book is brilliantly clever and funny, but it can also lead to great discussion about their own challenges and strengths. The freshest version of a classic back to school theme.

To Purchase this book on Amazon, click here: Back to School with Bigfoot

I Will Never Get a Star on Mrs. Benson’s Blackboard- by Jennifer K. Mann

Rose wants a star on the blackboard, but her reading voice is too quiet, her desk is always messy, and she worries and worries about desk inspection. It turns out Rose has talents all her own, her worries are unfounded, and her teacher sees her for the shining star she is. In my classroom experience children struggle with anxiety. This book is an example to children that worries typically are just worries. I think this is a good conversation starter to help children cope with unnecessary worry.

To Purchase this book on Amazon, click here:I Will Never Get a Star on Mrs. Benson’s Blackboard

Planet Kindergarten- by Sue Ganz-Schmitt

Dylan faces the typical back to school stresses and routines. However, he imagines his new school as a space station, and he is the astronaut on a mission. A fun book, ignites imagination, and appeals to any space lovers in your classroom.

To Purchase this book on Amazon, click here:Planet Kindergarten

I Am Too Absolutely Small for School –by Lauren Child

Lola presents her argument, she certainly cannot attend school this year. Charlie presents his counter arguments. This dialogue explains all the universal Preschool and Kindergarten experiences.  It is comforting, all the problems are real for children. It contains rich vocabulary, a perfect Preschool or Pre-K first day book.

To Purchase this book on Amazon, click here:I Am Too Absolutely Small for School (Charlie and Lola)

The Teacher’s Pet -by Anica Mrose Rissi

Mr. Strictor’s class hatched tadpoles, and gets to keep just one for the class pet. The class pet gets out of control, but the students don’t know what to do. Their teacher loves the pet and won’t let it go. The children ban together to find the perfect solution.  I love how the class solves the problem.  A humorous, endearing book for primary grades.

To Purchase this book on Amazon, click here:The Teacher’s Pet

Amanda Panda Quits Kindergarten- by Candice Ransom

It is nice to find longer picture books, I think it is beneficial for children’s attention span. Amanda Panda is eager for her first day of school, but nothing goes quite like she expected. I noted that the main character was the unkind friend, I think this creates good discussion with children. In the end, she learned to be a good friend even when she didn’t feel like choosing to be kind. A great first month of school read aloud.

To Purchase this book on Amazon, click here:Amanda Panda Quits Kindergarten