Whether your kids are sharpening pencils for the first day or already settling into their new routines, back-to-school season is the perfect time to share stories that capture the excitement, nerves, and adventures of a new school year. We’ve rounded up a great pick for every age group to inspire confidence, spark conversations, and make this season even more memorable.
📚 Ages 0–3: “Llama Llama Misses Mama” by Anna Dewdney
This sweet rhyming tale follows Llama Llama as he navigates his first day of preschool, feeling shy and missing his mama. Perfect for toddlers just starting school, it reassures them that while goodbyes can be hard, the fun and friends waiting at school make it all worthwhile.
📚 Ages 4–7: “The Day You Begin” by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by Rafael López
A beautifully illustrated story about finding your voice and courage when you feel different from everyone else. Young readers will connect with its message that sharing your own story can open the door to friendship and understanding — ideal for children starting a new class or school.
📚 Ages 8–10: “School’s First Day of School” by Adam Rex, illustrated by Christian Robinson
Told from the unique perspective of the school building itself, this humorous and heartwarming story shows that even schools get nervous on the first day. Great for elementary kids, it encourages empathy, imagination, and an understanding that everyone feels jitters sometimes.
📚 Ages 11–13: “New Kid” by Jerry Craft
This engaging graphic novel follows Jordan, a seventh grader adjusting to life at a new private school while balancing friendships, identity, and fitting in. Middle school readers will relate to its humor, honesty, and real-life situations while exploring themes of diversity and self-confidence.
📚 Ages 14+: “Firekeeper’s Daughter” by Angeline Boulley
A gripping YA mystery about an 18-year-old Ojibwe girl caught between her community and a dangerous investigation during her senior year. Best for older teens, it blends suspense with powerful themes of identity, resilience, and speaking up for what’s right.
No matter your child’s age, reading together is a wonderful way to ease the transition into a new school year. Sharing these stories can spark conversations, encourage empathy, and help kids feel more confident as they take on new challenges. Grab a book, cuddle up, and make back-to-school season a little brighter, one page at a time.
