30 of the Best Books for First Graders

First grade is an exciting time for young readers as they build confidence, expand their vocabulary, and work on decoding new words! Whether they’re reading on their own, with a parent, or as a class, the right books can make learning fun and engaging. This list of 30 must-read books for first graders includes a mix of funny stories, heartwarming tales, and engaging early readers—perfect for sparking imagination and strengthening reading skills!

Best Adventure Books for 1st Graders

1. The World Belonged to Us by Jacqueline Woodson
   This book is a heartfelt tale of friendship and adventure that teaches children the importance of loyalty and trust.

2. Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
   A timeless classic that allows children to explore their emotions and understand that it’s okay to feel different things.

3. Spy Force Kids To the Rescue by ABCmouse
   Join Mandi, Carlos, and Lacie as they set out on super secret missions as part of the Junior Spy Force.

4. The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson
   This delightful story captivates young readers with its clever mouse protagonist, teaching them the power of wit and bravery.

Best Poetry and Rhyming Books for 1st Graders

5. Blue Sky White Stars by Sarvinder Naberhaus
   A poetic celebration of America, this book instills a sense of national pride and unity, using the flag as a powerful symbol.

6. Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr.
   This book turns learning the alphabet into a fun, rhythmic adventure, encouraging early literacy skills.

7. The New Kid on the Block by Jack Prelutsky
   This collection of humorous and thought-provoking poems encourages children to appreciate the beauty and fun of language.

8. A Page a Day by ABCmouse
   In this rhyming book a mom gives her son a “page a day” journal to document his life one adventure at a time.

Best Picture Books for 1st Graders

9. The Book Hog by Greg Pizzoli
   This charming story tells of a hog who loves books but can’t read, eventually discovering the joy and empowerment that comes from reading.

10. Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña
    This book takes children on a bus ride through a diverse community, teaching them about the beauty in everyday life and the value of giving back.

11. All About Penguins by ABCmouse
    Learn all about the exciting world of penguins through vibrant pictures and easy to read captions.

12. The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt
    Through the lens of a box of crayons, this clever book teaches children about empathy, cooperation, and the importance of listening to different perspectives.

Best Humorous Books for 1st Graders

13. Diary of a Worm by Doreen Cronin
    This book offers a hilarious and insightful look into the daily life of a worm, teaching children about the importance of daily routines and responsibilities.

14. Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! by Mo Willems
    This comical story serves as a lesson in setting boundaries and the importance of saying no, all while keeping children entertained.

15. The True Story of the Three Little Pigs by Jon Scieszka:
    This clever retelling of a classic story encourages children to think critically, consider multiple perspectives, and question the stories they know.

16. There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed Fly Guy by Tedd Arnold
    This book blends together two popular series, Fly Guy and There Was an Old Lady. The result is a highly-entertaining story with pictures that can help kids decode the words.

Best Educational Books for 1st Graders

17. How to Clean a Hippopotamus by Robin Page
    This book offers fascinating insights into animal behavior, making learning about the animal kingdom engaging and fun.

18. The Magic School Bus Inside the Earth by Joanna Cole
    This book takes children on a magical journey into the Earth’s geology, sparking an interest in science and the world around them.

19. What Do You Do With an Idea by Kobi Yamada
    This beautifully illustrated book inspires children to believe in their ideas, teaching them the value of creativity and perseverance.

Best Books Celebrating Diversity for 1st Graders

20. Julian Is a Mermaid by Jessica Love
    This touching story encourages self-expression and acceptance, teaching children that it’s okay to be different.

21. All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold
    This book shows children that diversity enriches our lives and communities, teaching them the value of acceptance and inclusion.

22. Max Celebrates Chinese New Year by Adria F. Klein
    Max joins Lily and her family in their vibrant Lunar New Year festivities, complete with flowers, oranges, and delightful candies.

Best Books by Authors of Color for 1st Graders

23. Hair Like Mine by LaTashia M. Perry
    This book teaches children to appreciate and celebrate their unique features, promoting self-love and acceptance.

24. Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut by Derrick Barnes
    This poetic and empowering book celebrates the transformative power of a fresh haircut and the confidence it can bring.

25. Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty
    This book encourages girls, especially those of color, to pursue their interests in STEM fields, teaching them that curiosity and perseverance are valuable traits.

26. Imani’s Moon by Janay Brown-Wood
    Folklore and fantasy combine to create this heartwarming story about a young girl with big dreams of touching the moon.

Books on Social and Emotional Learning

27. The Feelings Book by Todd Parr
    This colorful book helps children identify and express their emotions, teaching them emotional intelligence from a young age.

28. Have You Filled a Bucket Today? by Carol McCloud
    This book teaches the concept of kindness and its impact on others, promoting empathy and social awareness.

29. I Am Enough by Grace Byers
    This book instills a sense of self-worth and confidence in children, teaching them the importance of self-love and acceptance.

30. I Am Human: A Book on Empathy by Susan Verde
    As children read, they’ll learn about living with kindness and compassion and the complexity of being a human.

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