Reading aloud to my class is one of my favorite things to do. If you’re looking for the best read aloud books for elementary school children, look no further. This list of stories is perfect for classrooms to enjoy together!
As fun as a read-aloud can be, it pays off to be careful while choosing your first few. A boring or confusing first experience with longer narrative can really take the fun out of the experience. No one has time for that!
I have polled numerous teachers, and here’s a list of our favorites by grade level! This list provides culturally diverse selections, & social emotional books, but most of all these are just great reads! Enjoy, & please leave your favorite class reads in the comments below.
Click HERE to get this FREE read-aloud book list!
I’ve taught k-8th grade. Throughout my career, these are some of my absolute favorites:
- Sideways Stories from Wayside School by Louis Sachar is an entertaining must read for 2nd – 4th grader students!
- Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling is a gripping read, but can be a bit scary for sensitive kids. I recommend it for grades 5 & 6, because my own 4th grader would be scared silly!
- Ish by Peter Reynolds is for those perfectionists who get upset because their work isn’t perfect. It encourages them to try anyway! We use the word -ish all year! It can be used across grade levels.
- Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein is a classic and all time favorite! All grade levels will appreciate it!