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Back-to-School Books: Stories to Start the School Year Right
- coalvalleylibrary
- Aug 14
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 10
The first day of school is more than just sharpened pencils and new backpacks—it’s a big leap into a new chapter of your child’s story. For many kids, it’s an exciting time filled with curiosity, but it can also bring jitters, questions, and a few butterflies in the stomach.
One of the best ways to help children navigate these feelings is through books. Stories can offer comfort, spark conversations, and remind young readers they’re not alone in their experiences. Here are a few wonderful back-to-school reads to share together:
Picture Books for the First Day
The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson – A heartfelt reminder that everyone feels different sometimes, but our unique stories are what make us special.
School’s First Day of School by Adam Rex – Told from the perspective of the school itself, this charming story offers humor and empathy for kids who are feeling unsure.
First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg – A funny twist that shows you’re not the only one who might feel wobbly on day one.
Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes – A sweet tale about self-acceptance and kindness.
Early Readers & Chapter Books
Junie B. Jones: First Grader (at last!) by Barbara Park – Junie B.’s silly antics will make kids laugh while tackling relatable first-day themes.
The Pigeon HAS to Go to School! by Mo Willems – A fun, expressive book that addresses worries in a playful way.
Tips for Parents: Making the First Week Shine
Read Together Every Night – Even 10 minutes of shared reading can spark meaningful conversations. Ask questions about what they read and connect it to their own school day.
Share Your Own School Stories – Kids love hearing that their parents once felt nervous or excited about school too.
Build a “Bookend” Routine – Start and end the day with a short story to create comfort and predictability during a time of change.
More Time for You? We’ve Got You Covered
When your child is at school and you find yourself with a little extra time, why not dive into a great book yourself? With Boundless and Libby, you can check out eBooks and eAudiobooks anytime, anywhere—perfect for enjoying a quiet moment over coffee or on your commute.
Whether it’s discovering a hidden literary gem, revisiting a beloved classic, or finally starting that mystery everyone’s been talking about, our digital library is open 24/7. All you need is your library card to begin.
Start Exploring these Two Free Apps:
Boundless: Click here to get started
Libby: Click here to get started
As the school bell rings in a new year, let’s fill it with stories—ones that inspire courage, spark imagination, and remind us that every page turned is the start of another adventure.
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