It’s hard to realize, but the 2021–2022 academic year is almost over, so graduation is right around the corner! With books, what could be a better way to celebrate? Here are some of our top graduation recommendations for students of all ages.
The Best Books for Kindergarten and Preschool Graduation
Graduation Groove by Kathryn Heling and Deborah Hembrook
A colorful and varied bunch of kindergarteners prepare for first grade in this uplifting read-aloud.
What Would You Do in a Book About You? by Jean Reidy
This charming read-aloud challenges children to picture themselves as the protagonists of their stories.
The Wonderful Things You Will Be by Emily Winfield Martin
This graduation book is ideal for the younger crowd since it combines nostalgic pictures with playful prose about the opportunities ahead.
Kindergarten, Here I Come! by D.J. Steinberg
A collection of brief poems highlights all the beautiful things about kindergarten. (Also, watch First Grade, Here I Come!)
The Night Before Kindergarten Graduation by Natasha Wing
Students will identify with this tale about all the feelings and duties involved with graduation preparation, which is a part of Wing’s endearing “The Night Before” series.
Celebrate You! by Sherry Duskey Rinker
We adore how this rhyming read-aloud acknowledges the early achievements while anticipating many more.
The Best 5th Grade Graduation Books
This graduation book emphasizes the notion of being true to yourself, which is crucial for children to hear when they enter middle school.
What the Road Said by Cleo Wade
Fifth graders will be motivated to keep going no matter what challenges they encounter by this conversation between a traveler and their route.
Dear Girl, by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Paris Rosenthal
A great reminder that females of all ages are competent, intelligent, and powerful. (There is a Dear Boy variation as well.)
Surviving Middle School by Luke Reynolds
This humorous field guide to middle school discusses issues including grades, parent relationships, peer pressure, and bullying.
In this entry in the “Worst Case Scenario” series, the graduating fifth graders will learn how to deal with the overload of schoolwork, cliques, bullying, and more.
The Best Books for 8th Grade Graduation
The Hill We Climb by Amanda Gorman
The book version of the inauguration poem might motivate high school graduates who are just starting their careers.
97 Things to Do Before You Finish High School by Steven Jenkins
The categories on this entertaining bucket list include those for family, community, and personal growth.
You Are Awesome by Matthew Syed
A growth mindset manual for middle schoolers will motivate students to take lessons from failure.
How to Be a Person by Catherine Newman
In a lighthearted, graphic book format, Newman addresses many life’s essentials (such as thank you cards and arithmetic advice).
The Best Books for High School Graduation
Carpe Every Diem by Robin Rogge
This collection of the finest graduation speeches would make a wonderful present for a student who has to write their own.
Do Your Laundry or Die Alone by Becky Blades
Check out this book of mom-inspired advice for recent high school grads if you’re searching for a humorous yet motivational pick.
All These Wonders edited by Catherine Burns
Send out high school grads with these real-world motivational tales about overcoming uncertainty.
You Will Leave a Trail of Stars by Lisa Congdon
We adore the boldly hued illustrations and astute words of wisdom in this book.
How to College by Andrea Malkin Brenner and Lara Hope Schwartz
Graduates bound to college will value this helpful guide to campus life, covering general and academic themes.
Assume the Worst by Carl Hiassen
This satirical book parodies graduation clichés like “live each day as if it’s your last” and offers a humorous but accurate interpretation of what it truly means to pursue your aspirations.
