Back to School Read-alouds


Lower Elementary (pre-K to grade 2):

Hennessy, B.G. Because of You.
ISBN: 076361926-4
(no lexile level available. Listed as grade level 1.3)

The spare text of this book provides a perfect celebration of the individual’s potential within a community. Use it to launch discussions about generosity, kindness, caring, and understanding. Create a rewrite of the book called “Because of Us.” Younger students can suggest ideas of what to write and photos or drawings to include. Older students can add ideas unique to your classroom or school community and take digital photos in the classroom and around the school to illustrate the important concepts in the book.

Additional books:

Child, Lauren. But Excuse me, that is my Book ISBN: 978-0-8037-3096-0 Lexile level: 570L

Child, Lauren. I am too Absolutely Small for School ISBN: 978-0-7636-2887-1
Lexile level: 640L

Cohen, Miriam. When Will I Read? ISBN: 0-688-80073-4
Lexile Level: 320L

Danneberg, Julie. First Day Jitters (surprise ending!) ISBN: 978-1-58089-054-0
Lexile level: 210L

Gary, Meredith. Sometimes You Get What You Want. ISBN: 978-0-06-114015-0
Lexile level:

Lasky, Kathryn. Lunch Bunnies ISBN: 0-316-51525-6
Lexile level: 480L

O’Neill, Alexis. The Recess Queen ISBN: 0-439-20637-5
Lexile level: 450L