Books on Starting School: 2024 Update of the Best Titles

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The Pigeon HAS to Go to School!

by Mo Willems

The Pigeon HAS to Go to School! by Mo Willems is a delightful and humorous book about starting school that follows the lovable Pigeon as he faces the anxiety and excitement of his first day of school. The Pigeon, known for his stubbornness and reluctance, presents a comical and relatable perspective on the fears and uncertainties that many children experience when starting school. Through Willems’ signature illustrations and witty dialogue, young readers will be entertained and reassured as they follow the Pigeon’s journey of overcoming his worries and discovering the joys of learning and making new friends. This heartwarming starting school book is a perfect read for children who are about to embark on their own school adventures, as it encourages them to embrace new experiences and all the wonderful things that school has to offer.

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We Don’t Eat Our Classmates

by Ryan T. Higgins

We Don’t Eat Our Classmates by Ryan T. Higgins is a delightful book about starting school that follows the story of Penelope, a young dinosaur who is excited to start her first day of school. However, things take an unexpected turn when Penelope realizes that her classmates are actually human children! As she struggles to make friends and fit in, Penelope learns an important lesson about empathy and kindness. The book is filled with humor and heartwarming moments, making it a perfect read for children who are nervous about starting school. With its charming illustrations and funny storyline, We Don’t Eat Our Classmates is a must-have starting school book that teaches important lessons about acceptance and friendship in a lighthearted and engaging way.

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The King of Kindergarten

by Derrick Barnes

The King of Kindergarten by Derrick Barnes is a heartwarming and empowering book about starting school. It follows a young boy as he embarks on his first day of kindergarten with confidence and excitement, just like a king. The story celebrates the joy and adventure of starting school, highlighting the new friends, experiences, and knowledge waiting to be discovered. Through vibrant illustrations and encouraging words, children will feel inspired and empowered to embrace the beginning of their educational journey. This book on starting school is a perfect read-aloud for young ones who are about to start school or for those who want to relive the excitement of their own first day. It’s a delightful and uplifting story that captures the magic of the starting school experience.

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School’s First Day of School

by Adam Rex

School’s First Day of School by Adam Rex is a delightful picture book about the first day of school from a unique perspective. The story unfolds from the point of view of the school building itself, named Frederick Douglass Elementary. As the school nervously anticipates the arrival of students, the reader gets a charming and humorous look at the insecurities and excitement of starting school. With colorful and engaging illustrations by Christian Robinson, this book about starting school will resonate with young readers as they embark on their own first day adventures. School’s First Day of School is a heartwarming and relatable starting school book that captures the anticipation, jitters, and joys of the first day of school.

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The Day You Begin

by Jacqueline Woodson

The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson is a heartwarming and empowering book about starting school. Through beautiful prose and stunning illustrations, it tells the story of feeling different and alone when entering a new environment. The book explores themes of diversity, inclusion, and the courage it takes to share your unique story with others. Woodson’s lyrical writing and Rafael López’s vibrant artwork come together to create a powerful message of acceptance and belonging. Whether it’s the first day of school or entering any new situation, this starting school book is sure to resonate with readers of all ages as it celebrates the beauty of being yourself and finding connection with others.

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The Name Jar

by Yangsook Choi

The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi is a heartwarming picture book about a young girl, Unhei, who moves to America from Korea. As she prepares to start school, she becomes self-conscious about her name and decides to choose a new one. However, her classmates have a different idea and create a name jar for her, filled with suggestions for her new name. Through this touching story, children will learn about the importance of embracing their own identity and the beauty of diversity. This book on starting school is a wonderful way to introduce young readers to the idea of acceptance and inclusivity, making it a perfect read for children who are about to embark on their own school journey.

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The Kissing Hand

by Audrey Penn

The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn is a heartwarming book about starting school that follows a young raccoon named Chester as he faces his first day of school jitters. Chester’s mother comes up with a brilliant idea to help ease his worries, sharing a family secret called the Kissing Hand. This tender story explores themes of separation anxiety, love, and the bond between parent and child. The beautiful illustrations and comforting message make this book a perfect choice for children who may be feeling nervous about starting school. The Kissing Hand is a timeless classic that has been helping children and parents navigate the challenges of the first day of school for over 25 years, making it a must-read starting school book.

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Wemberly Worried

by Kevin Henkes

Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes is a heartwarming and relatable story about a young mouse who is anxious about starting school. Wemberly worries about everything, from spilling her juice to losing her doll, Petal. As she navigates her fears, she meets a new friend, Jewel, and learns that she is not alone in her worries. Through colorful illustrations and endearing characters, this book captures the essence of starting school and the anxieties that come with it. Henkes skillfully addresses the universal experience of feeling anxious about new experiences, making Wemberly Worried a must-read for anyone starting school, or dealing with anxiety.

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Llama Llama Misses Mama

by Anna Dewdney

Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney is a heartwarming book about starting school that follows little Llama as he experiences separation anxiety on his first day at school. The story beautifully captures the emotions of a young child facing the challenges of being away from their parent for the first time. Through colorful illustrations and simple, rhyming text, the book explores Llama’s fears and ultimately shows how he overcomes them with the help of his teacher and new friends. This starting school book is a wonderful resource for parents and caregivers to read with their little ones who may be feeling anxious about starting school, as it reassures them that it’s okay to miss their loved ones and that they will be okay. Llama Llama Misses Mama is a comforting and relatable story that will resonate with both children and adults alike.

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Pete the Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes

by Eric Litwin

Pete the Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes is a fun and upbeat book about starting school. Written by Eric Litwin, this story follows Pete as he rocks in his school shoes and explores all the different parts of the school, from the library to the playground. With its catchy rhythm and repetitive refrain, this book is perfect for young readers who are getting ready to start school for the first time. The colorful illustrations and lovable character of Pete the Cat make this a delightful read for children who may be feeling a little nervous about starting school. It’s a great starting school book that will help kids feel excited and confident as they embark on this new adventure.

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The Berenstain Bears Go to School

by Stan and Jan Berenstain

The Berenstain Bears Go to School follows the beloved bear family as they prepare for the new school year. This heartwarming book about starting school introduces young readers to Sister Bear and Brother Bear as they get ready to embark on a new adventure. The story touches on the fears and excitement that come with a new school year, making it a perfect read for children who may be feeling nervous about starting school. With its engaging illustrations and relatable storyline, this classic book about starting school is a must-have for any young reader. Join the Berenstain Bears as they navigate the ups and downs of the school experience in this delightful starting school book.

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If You Take a Mouse to School

by Laura Numeroff

If You Take a Mouse to School by Laura Numeroff is a delightful picture book about the adventures of taking a mouse to school. The story follows the mischievous mouse as he explores the classroom, participates in various activities, and causes all sorts of adorable chaos. Through humorous and engaging illustrations, young readers will learn about the excitement and challenges of starting school, as well as the importance of following rules and making new friends. This heartwarming and entertaining book about starting school is perfect for children who are getting ready to embark on their own school journey. With its lovable characters and playful storyline, If You Take a Mouse to School is sure to captivate and entertain young readers as they prepare for their own educational adventures.

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The Gingerbread Man Loose in the School

by Laura Murray

The Gingerbread Man Loose in the School by Laura Murray is a delightful starting school book that follows the adventures of a gingerbread man who escapes from the classroom and explores the school. As he races through the halls, he encounters various school staff and students, all while trying to avoid being caught. The story is filled with lively illustrations and fun rhymes, making it an engaging read for young children. This book about starting school is perfect for helping kids overcome any anxieties they may have about starting school, as it shows them that school can be a place of fun and adventure. With its heartwarming message and charming protagonist, The Gingerbread Man Loose in the School is a must-read for any child about to embark on their starting school journey.

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David Goes to School

by David Shannon

David Goes to School by David Shannon is a humorous and relatable picture book about a mischievous young boy’s adventures as he navigates the ups and downs of school life. The story follows David as he tackles the challenges of following the rules, paying attention in class, and getting along with others. With colorful illustrations and witty storytelling, the book captures the universal experience of starting school and the antics that come with it. It’s a delightful read that both kids and parents can enjoy, and a great conversation starter for little ones who may be feeling anxious about their own upcoming school adventures. This starting school book is sure to entertain and reassure young readers as they embark on their own educational journeys.

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The Night Before Kindergarten

by Natasha Wing

The Night Before Kindergarten by Natasha Wing is a heartwarming and relatable book about starting school. The story follows a group of excited children as they prepare for their first day of kindergarten. From packing their backpacks to meeting their new teacher, the book captures the nervous anticipation and joy that comes with this milestone. The rhyming text and charming illustrations make this book a perfect read-aloud for young children getting ready for their own first day of school. The Night Before Kindergarten is a reassuring and fun starting school book that will help ease any anxieties and build excitement for the big day.

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Froggy Goes to School

by Jonathan London

Froggy Goes to School by Jonathan London is a delightful children’s book about a young frog’s exciting and comical first day of school. The story follows Froggy as he navigates various mishaps, from forgetting his lunch to getting lost on the way to school. With its playful text and vibrant illustrations, the book captures the nervousness and excitement that often accompanies the first day of school. This heartwarming and humorous tale is perfect for young readers who are about to embark on their own school adventures. Whether it’s for a read-aloud session at home or for easing any anxieties about the first day of school, Froggy Goes to School is a charming and relatable choice for children who are starting school.

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Chrysanthemum

by Kevin Henkes

Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes is a heartwarming picture book about a little mouse who loves her unique name until she starts school and faces teasing from her classmates. The story beautifully captures the emotions of a young child facing the challenges of starting school, dealing with self-esteem, and finding acceptance. With its delightful illustrations and relatable storyline, Chrysanthemum is a must-read for any child preparing for the beginning of their school journey. This starting school book teaches children about the importance of self-confidence and embracing their individuality. Henkes’ gentle and reassuring narrative makes this book about starting school a comforting read for children and a thoughtful reminder for adults about the impact of words and actions on young minds.

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Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten

by Joseph Slate

Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten by Joseph Slate is a delightful book about the first day of school. The story follows Miss Bindergarten and her 26 students as they prepare for their first day of kindergarten. Each student’s name starts with a different letter of the alphabet, and the book cleverly weaves their preparations into the alphabet, making it a fun and engaging way for young readers to learn their ABCs.

The colorful illustrations and rhythmic text make this book a joy to read aloud, and it’s perfect for calming any first-day-of-school jitters. With its focus on getting ready for a new adventure, this book is a wonderful choice for children who are about to start school for the first time. Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten is a heartwarming and reassuring starting school book that will leave young readers excited and ready to begin their own kindergarten journey.

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First Day Jitters

by Julie Danneberg

First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg is a delightful book about starting school that follows Sarah Jane Hartwell, a nervous and reluctant student who is facing the dreaded first day of school. Sarah Jane is so anxious that she tries to come up with every excuse possible to avoid going to school. However, with the help of her patient and understanding husband, she manages to overcome her fears and make it to her first day of teaching at a new school. This heartwarming and relatable story is perfect for young readers who may be feeling anxious about their own starting school experience. With charming illustrations and a sweet message about overcoming fears, First Day Jitters is a must-read for anyone getting ready for a big change.

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The Dot

by Peter H. Reynolds

The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds is a heartwarming and inspiring story about creativity, self-expression, and the power of encouragement. The book follows Vashti, a young girl who believes she can’t draw, until her teacher’s gentle encouragement leads her to explore her creativity and discover her own unique artistic style. This beautifully illustrated book is a perfect choice for children who may be feeling hesitant about expressing themselves or trying something new. It’s a wonderful reminder that everyone has the potential to be creative and that even the smallest mark can make a big impact. The Dot is a great choice for children who may be nervous about their first day of school, as it encourages them to embrace their individuality and take their first steps into a new world of learning and discovery.