Books on The First Day Of School: 2024 Update of the Most Influential Titles (2024)

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The King of Kindergarten

by Derrick Barnes

The King of Kindergarten by Derrick Barnes is a heartwarming and empowering picture book about the first day of school. It follows a young boy as he embarks on his first day of kindergarten, feeling confident and ready to conquer the world. The book celebrates the excitement and nerves that come with starting school, and encourages children to approach new experiences with courage and enthusiasm. With vibrant illustrations and a joyful narrative, The King of Kindergarten is a perfect read-aloud for parents and teachers to share with children as they prepare for their own first day of school. It’s a book about the first day of school that will inspire children to embrace the adventure of a new beginning and to walk into the classroom with confidence and pride.

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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 the first day of school that follows Penelope, a young T-Rex, as she navigates the challenges of making friends at school. Penelope quickly learns that it’s not easy being the only dinosaur in a classroom full of human children. She struggles to control her natural instincts to eat her classmates and faces the consequences of her actions. With humor and heart, this first day of school book teaches valuable lessons about empathy, kindness, and understanding differences. The colorful illustrations and engaging storyline make this book a perfect choice for parents and teachers looking to spark conversations about friendship and acceptance. We Don’t Eat Our Classmates is a must-read for anyone embarking on the exciting journey of a new school year.

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The Pigeon HAS to Go to School!

by Mo Willems

The Pigeon HAS to Go to School! is a delightful children’s book about a pigeon who is hesitant to start his first day of school. The book captures the pigeon’s anxiety and reluctance to attend school, and the humorous illustrations and dialogue make it an engaging and relatable read for young readers. Through the pigeon’s journey, Mo Willems addresses common fears and concerns that children may have about the first day of school, making it a heartwarming and reassuring story for kids who may be nervous about starting school. With its charming storytelling and expressive illustrations, this book about the first day of school is sure to be a hit with children and parents alike, offering a fun and endearing perspective on the excitement and apprehension of embarking on a new school year.

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All Are Welcome

by Alexandra Penfold

All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold is a heartwarming and inclusive picture book that celebrates diversity and the sense of belonging. The story follows a group of children as they navigate through the first day of school, highlighting the different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences that each student brings to the classroom. The book emphasizes the message that no matter who you are or where you come from, you are welcome and valued. With vibrant illustrations and a rhythmic text, this first day of school book promotes the importance of acceptance, kindness, and unity in a school community. All Are Welcome is a perfect choice to read aloud and discuss with young readers, helping them to embrace differences and create a welcoming environment for everyone.

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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 the first day of school. This beautifully illustrated book follows the story of a young girl who feels different and out of place as she enters a new school. However, as she begins to share her experiences, she discovers that everyone has their own unique story to tell. Through the power of storytelling and empathy, the characters in the book learn to embrace and celebrate their differences, finding courage and connection in the face of uncertainty. The Day You Begin is a touching and relatable tale that teaches children the importance of understanding and accepting others, making it a perfect read for the first day of school or any time they may feel like they don’t quite fit in.

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School’s First Day of School

by Adam Rex

School’s First Day of School by Adam Rex is a charming and humorous 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. The school is nervous and excited about the first day, just like the students and teachers. As the day progresses, the school experiences all the emotions and events that come with the first day of school, from the arrival of the students to the classroom activities. With delightful illustrations by Christian Robinson, this book offers a fresh and entertaining take on the first day of school, making it a perfect read for young students and anyone who loves a good school story.

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The Name Jar

by Yangsook Choi

The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi is a heartwarming book about the first day of school that follows a young girl named Unhei as she struggles with the idea of fitting in at her new school in America. Unhei is hesitant to share her Korean name with her new classmates, so she decides to choose a new, more American name instead. However, as Unhei’s classmates learn about her real name, they come together to help her embrace her unique identity. This first day of school book teaches important lessons about diversity, acceptance, and the power of friendship. With beautiful illustrations and a touching storyline, The Name Jar is a must-read for children and adults alike.

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The Invisible Boy

by Trudy Ludwig

The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig is a heartwarming book about the first day of school that follows Brian, a quiet and overlooked boy who feels invisible in the classroom. The story beautifully captures the emotions and challenges that many children face when they go to school for the first time. As Brian navigates his way through the first day of school, readers are taken on a journey of empathy, friendship, and inclusivity. Through its powerful message, this first day of school book teaches young readers about the importance of kindness, acceptance, and the impact of reaching out to those who may feel left out. The Invisible Boy is a must-read for parents, educators, and children, and it’s a powerful tool for starting conversations about empathy and inclusion.

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First Day Jitters

by Julie Danneberg

First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg is a charming and relatable book about the anxiety and excitement of starting a new school year. The story follows Sarah Jane Hartwell, who is feeling nervous and reluctant to go to her new school. With the help of her husband and her new principal, Mrs. Burton, Sarah Jane eventually overcomes her fears and heads off to her first day of school. Readers will empathize with Sarah Jane’s feelings of apprehension and root for her as she takes on this new adventure. This heartwarming and humorous book is perfect for children who may be feeling anxious about starting a new school year, and it serves as a gentle reminder that everyone experiences first-day jitters.

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The Kissing Hand

by Audrey Penn

The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn is a heartwarming book about the first day of school that tells the story of a young raccoon named Chester who is nervous about starting school. His mother then shares a family secret called ‘the kissing hand’ to help him overcome his fears. This special kiss on his hand reminds Chester of his mother’s love and gives him the courage to face the challenges of the day. The first day of school book beautifully captures the emotions and anxieties children may experience when starting something new, and offers a comforting message about love and support. With its charming illustrations and touching story, The Kissing Hand is a must-read for children and parents alike as they navigate the excitement and apprehension of new beginnings.

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The Night Before Kindergarten

by Natasha Wing

The Night Before Kindergarten by Natasha Wing is a heartwarming and delightful book on the first day of school that captures the excitement and nervousness of starting a new school year. Through playful rhymes and charming illustrations, the book follows a group of children as they prepare for their big day, from picking out their outfit to packing their backpacks. As the children meet their teacher and make new friends, they realize that kindergarten is full of fun and adventure. This book about the first day of school is perfect for easing any young child’s anxiety about starting school and is a wonderful way to celebrate this important milestone. With its relatable story and engaging illustrations, The Night Before Kindergarten is a must-read the first day of school book for any child beginning their school journey.

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The Berenstain Bears Go to School

by Stan and Jan Berenstain

The Berenstain Bears Go to School is a heartwarming children’s book about the first day of school. The story follows Brother and Sister Bear as they prepare for their first day at Bear Country School. They experience a mix of excitement and nervousness as they meet their new teacher, make new friends, and navigate the challenges of the classroom. Through colorful illustrations and relatable storytelling, the book captures the emotions and experiences that children may encounter on the first day of school. With its gentle and reassuring tone, The Berenstain Bears Go to School is a perfect read for young readers who are gearing up for their own first day of school. The book is a delightful exploration of the first day of school, offering both comfort and encouragement to children embarking on this new adventure.

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The New Girl… and Me

by Jacqui Robbins

The New Girl… and Me by Jacqui Robbins is a heartwarming book about the first day of school that follows the story of a young girl who is nervous about starting a new school year. When she meets the new girl, she realizes that they have more in common than she thought. As they navigate the ups and downs of the first day of school together, they form a special bond and learn the true meaning of friendship. With its relatable characters and charming illustrations, this first day of school book is perfect for young readers who may be feeling anxious about starting a new school year. The story celebrates the power of friendship and the importance of being open to new experiences, making it a wonderful read for children embarking on their own first day of school adventure.

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The Twelve Days of Kindergarten

by Deborah Lee Rose

The Twelve Days of Kindergarten is a delightful picture book about the first day of school. Written by Deborah Lee Rose, this book follows the classic tune of “The Twelve Days of Christmas” as it details the first twelve days of kindergarten. The story is filled with fun and excitement as the young protagonist experiences everything from making new friends to learning the alphabet and counting. The colorful illustrations and engaging text capture the joy and anticipation of starting school, making it a perfect read for children who are about to embark on their own first day of school adventure. The book about the first day of school is a heartwarming and entertaining way to help children feel excited and prepared for their own first day of school.

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Wemberly Worried

by Kevin Henkes

Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes is a charming and relatable picture book about a little mouse named Wemberly who is anxious about everything, especially the upcoming ‘first day of school’. She worries about making friends, getting lost, and being away from her family. As she navigates her fears, she discovers that she is not alone in feeling worried and finds comfort in the support of her new friends and teacher. Through Kevin Henkes’ endearing illustrations and heartfelt storytelling, Wemberly Worried gently addresses the universal experience of feeling anxious and reassures young readers that it’s okay to feel nervous about new experiences. This book about the first day of school is a wonderful resource for parents, teachers, and children to explore and discuss feelings of anxiety and how to cope with them.

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Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten

by Joseph Slate

Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten is an endearing book about the first day of school. Written by Joseph Slate, this delightful story follows Miss Bindergarten as she prepares her classroom for the arrival of her new students. Each page introduces a different student, from Adam to Zach, as they get ready for their first day of kindergarten. The rhyming text and charming illustrations capture the excitement and nervousness of the students as they embark on this new adventure. With its engaging storytelling and relatable characters, this book is perfect for young children who are about to start their own first day of school. Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten is a heartwarming and reassuring read that will help ease any anxiety about the first day of school.

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Llama Llama Misses Mama

by Anna Dewdney

Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney is a heartwarming book about the first day of school for young readers. It follows Little Llama as he embarks on his first day at school and experiences the anxiety of being away from his mama. With colorful illustrations and rhythmic text, the book captures the emotions of separation and the reassurance of a familiar routine. As Little Llama navigates the challenges of the first day of school, he learns to embrace new experiences and finds comfort in the loving support of his teacher and classmates. Llama Llama Misses Mama is a relatable and comforting story that helps young children understand and cope with the emotions of starting school.

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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 charming and humorous children’s book about the first day of school. The story follows the beloved Pigeon as he expresses his anxiety and reluctance about starting school. He comes up with all sorts of excuses to avoid going, but ultimately realizes that school might not be so bad after all. With delightful illustrations and relatable emotions, this book is perfect for children who may be feeling nervous about their own first day of school. Through the Pigeon’s journey, young readers will learn about the excitement and apprehension that comes with new experiences and the importance of overcoming fears. The Pigeon Has to Go to School is a heartwarming and entertaining read that will resonate with children and parents alike.

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The Berenstain Bears Go to School

by Stan Berenstain

The Berenstain Bears Go to School is a heartwarming book about the first day of school. The beloved Bear family is back, and this time Mama and Papa Bear are helping Sister and Brother Bear prepare for their first day of school. As the cubs experience the excitement and nervousness of starting school, they learn important lessons about friendship, kindness, and the value of education. The charming illustrations and relatable storyline make this book a perfect read for young children who are about to embark on their own first day of school. Join the Berenstain Bears as they navigate the ups and downs of the first day of school and discover the joy of learning and making new friends.

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Mouse’s First Day of School

by Lauren Thompson

Mouse’s First Day of School by Lauren Thompson is a charming book about the first day of school that follows Mouse as he embarks on a new adventure. With vivid illustrations and simple, engaging text, this first day of school book captures the nerves and excitement of starting something new. As Mouse explores his classroom, meets his teacher, and makes new friends, young readers will relate to his experiences and find comfort in the familiar routine of a school day. This heartwarming story is perfect for easing any anxieties about the first day of school and helping children feel more prepared and excited for their own big day. Mouse’s First Day of School is a delightful and relatable tale that celebrates the joy of new beginnings and the wonder of learning.

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