Back to School, Backpack!
on Goodreads (132)
What’s inside...
A hilarious yet reassuring back-to-school picture book by humorist, novelist, and TV writer Simon Rich–a clever and sweet follow-up to I’m Terrified of Bath Time, where a child's backpack frets about first-day-of-school jitters! In this hilarious yet reassuring back-to-school picture book, a backpack deals with first-day-of-school nerves and feeling out of place. Filled with crowded hallways, lonely cafeteria tables, toilet stalls, and the signature existential angst of Simon Rich, this fun read-aloud will have kids braving classrooms with a smile (and maybe taking better care of their trusty backpacks...).
Discussion points
How do you think the backpack felt on its first day at school?
What are some ways that the backpack helped the students in the story?
If you were a character in the book, how would you help a nervous friend on their first day of school?
Why do you think it's important for everyone to have a friend like the backpack?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start a conversation by first asking your child about their own experiences or feelings about the first day of school.
Use expressive voice modulation to mimic excitement or nervousness at appropriate story segments.
Encourage your child to draw a picture of their own backpack or an imaginary one with unique features, then discuss how each feature could help them in school.
Relate the backpack’s experiences to real-life scenarios of making new friends or starting new classes, to help deepen your child’s understanding and empathy.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Preparation
Explanation: The story highlights how the character meticulously packs and organizes their backpack for school, demonstrating the value of being prepared.
Real-World Application: Children learn to gather and arrange their school supplies the night before, fostering responsibility and reducing morning stress.
Example Lesson: Embracing New Challenges
Explanation: As the character faces the first day in a new grade, the book shows how they tackle initial fears and uncertainties with courage.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to approach new academic years and other unfamiliar situations with optimism and bravery, building resilience.
Example Lesson: The Power of Friendships
Explanation: Throughout the book, friendships play a crucial role in helping the main character adapt to the school environment and learn.
Real-World Application: This story encourages children to cultivate meaningful friendships, which can provide emotional and academic support.
Example Lesson: Value of Organization
Explanation: The protagonist’s organized backpack serves as a metaphor for the importance of keeping one's belongings and thoughts in order.
Real-World Application: Children learn to maintain an organized workspace and belongings, which can increase efficiency and focus in school tasks.
Example Lesson: Continuous Learning
Explanation: The character consistently seeks help and asks questions throughout their school day, showing that it's okay to not know everything and that learning is a continuous process.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of asking questions and using school resources to enhance understanding and skills.