It’s back to school time! We are excited to share some new back to school books for kids that we are reading this month to help you prepare for the school year ahead.

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Turkey Goes to School

Written by Wendi Silvano and illustrated by Lee Harper

This addition to Silvano’s series of books about the determined and hilarious Turkey follows Turkey and his friends as they attempt to con their way into school. When they are told that animals can’t go to school, they decide to disguise turkey in creative costumes to get him in the front door. The silly costumes and the funny puns in the text are sure to delight little ones, while the excitement of going to school makes it a great back to school read.

Related Post: The Big List of Back to School Books

Beach Toys vs. School Supplies

Written by Mike Ciccotello

When Shovel and Ruler meet on the beach, they start an argument that results in a sandcastle building contest between the beach toys and the school supplies. As the two teams build their castles in very different ways, they find out that the other team may have something to teach them after all. This funny book about teamwork and balancing work and fun is a great back to school read to transition kids from summertime to school time.

Check out these Printable School Bookmarks for 5 different grade levels!

A Teacher Like You

Written by Frank Murphy and Barbara Dan and illustrated by Kayla Harren

This past year, we were reminded how invaluable great teachers are. In this beautiful book, the authors highlight all of the ways that teachers help their students to bloom and grow. From encouraging them to try new things, to supporting them with love and kindness, each page thanks teachers for all that they do. The illustrations feature a diverse cast of students and teachers in a variety of settings, showing that the love of a teacher is universal. In the end, the book tells teachers that the world needs more teachers like them.

Isabel and Her Colores Go To School

Written by Alexandra Alessandro and illustrated by Courtney Dawson

In this beautiful bilingual book, a young girl named Isabel is afraid to start at a new school. She doesn’t want to learn English, and she sees it in terms of cold, unfriendly colors, unlike the warm welcoming colors of Spanish. As she starts her first day, she is confused by the new words, and she struggles to find a place. Eventually, her love of coloring allows her to reach out and connect with others, bringing her two worlds together. Each page features the Spanish translation of the text in the margins, and the back of the book includes definitions of the Spanish vocabulary used in the book.

Geraldine Pu and Her Lunch Box, Too

Written and illustrated by Maggie P. Chang

This easy to read graphic novel for beginner readers follows a young girl named Geraldine as she takes her beloved lunch box to school. Lunch is her favorite part of the day, especially because of the delicious treats that her grandmother packs for her. But when another student makes fun of her food for being “different”, she becomes embarrassed. In the end, she comes to the defense of another boy being bullied for his “different” food. Together they learn to try new things and have an open mind. The beginning of the book teaches young readers how to read graphic novels. It also includes definitions of some of the words used in the book. In the back of the book there is a note from the author, as well as a recipe for Steamed Pork Bao.

Related Post: Illustrated Chapter Books & Graphic Novels for Kids

Helper Hounds: Brisket Helps Miryam with Online Learning

Written by Caryn Rivadeneira

This addition to the Helper Hounds book series introduces readers to a young girl named Miryam. She is forced to stay home for online classes while doctors try to help her get better. Miryam misses learning at school with her friends, so her dad enlists the services of Brisket the Helper Hound who helps Miryam with her online learning and still feeling connected to her friends. The Helper Hounds books share stories from the dog’s perspective, making them really fun to read. With the pandemic forcing many families to embrace online learning, this book couldn’t come at a better time. It even includes tips in the back to help kids with their online learning.

Are your kids ready to start the school year? What are your favorite back to school books to share as a family? Share them in the comments below!

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