Books like Off to First Grade
Award winning
The Drama Llama: A story about soothing anxiety
Rachel Morrisroe, 2024
40 pages
Why to read
Addresses anxiety with engaging, relatable storytelling.
Encourages emotional development and self-soothing techniques.
Supports early literacy with simple, rhythmic text.
Ideal for shared reading, fostering parent-child bonds.

The Drama Llama: A story about soothing anxiety
Rachel Morrisroe, 2024
Award winning
The Sea of Terror: Once Upon a Tim
Stuart Gibbs, 2025
161 pages
Why to read
Adventure-filled tale enriches curiosity and imagination.
Characters showcase resilience and teamwork.
Enhances critical thinking through problem-solving scenarios.
Ideal for interactive parent-child reading sessions.

The Sea of Terror: Once Upon a Tim
Stuart Gibbs, 2025
Award winning
The Sour Grape
Jory John, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Engaging narrative fostering emotional growth.
Teaches valuable lessons in resilience and friendship.
Boosts empathy with relatable, diverse characters.
Encourages dialogue on overcoming life's hurdles.

The Sour Grape
Jory John, 2022
Award winning
Karen's Birthday
Ann M. Martin, 2023
160 pages
Why to read
Captivating storyline celebrating milestones and growth.
Characters exhibit realistic emotions and decisions.
Enhances understanding of friendship and sharing.
Supports social skills development through engaging narrative.

Karen's Birthday
Ann M. Martin, 2023
Award winning
The Alice in Wonderland Omnibus Including Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass (with the Original John Tenniel Illustrations)
Lewis Carroll, 2021
258 pages
Why to read
Sparks imagination with whimsical, fantastical adventures.
Enhances critical thinking through puzzling scenarios, riddles.
Iconic illustrations by John Tenniel enrich storytelling.
Encourages exploration of identity and self-perception.

The Alice in Wonderland Omnibus Including Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass (with the Original John Tenniel Illustrations)
Lewis Carroll, 2021
Award winning
We Will Rock Our Classmates: Penelope Rex
Ryan T. Higgins, 2020
48 pages
Why to read
Boosts confidence through relatable character Penelope Rex.
Encourages inclusivity and friendship in school settings.
Supports emotional development and self-expression.
Ideal for engaging young readers in group discussions.

We Will Rock Our Classmates: Penelope Rex
Ryan T. Higgins, 2020
Award winning
Rowley Jefferson’s Awesome Friendly Spooky Stories
Jeff Kinney, 2021
224
Why to read
Engages with humor, perfect for young readers.
Encourages creativity and original storytelling.
Nurtures emotional intelligence through character experiences.
Supports literacy with accessible writing style.

Rowley Jefferson’s Awesome Friendly Spooky Stories
Jeff Kinney, 2021
The First Cat in Space and the Soup of Doom
Mac Barnett, 2024
272 pages
Why to read
Stimulates imagination with interstellar adventure.
Introduces resilience through quirky, relatable characters.
Encourages problem-solving in whimsical scenarios.
Provides a fun, engaging reading journey.
