Children’s Books

Cam Jansen and the First Day of School Mystery

By David Adler

On her first day of fifth grade, Cam Jansen uses her photographic memory to help the police find a car thief. Includes a memory game.

Tucker’s Four-Carrot School Day

By Susan Winget

The start of Tucker the rabbit’s first day of kindergarten is rocky, but making new friends helps change his attitude toward school.

The Kissing Hand

By Audrey Penn

A young raccoon is uncertain about going to school, until his mother shares a secret with him that makes him feel better.

Please Write in this Book

By Mary Amato

A third-grade teacher hides a blank journal in the classroom with a note attached that invites the finder to write an entry, and to re-hide the book. A hilarious exchange of ideas unfolds.

Brand-New Pencils, Brand-New Books

By Diane DeGroat

It’s the first day of first grade, and Gilbert is excited and nervous. He learns that first grade is not what he had expected. But Mrs. Byrd helps Gilbert discover that everyone has his or her own special talent.

Dexter the Tough

By Margaret Peterson Haddix

It’s the first day of school for Dexter, but he’s already mad at the principal, the secretary and the kids who laugh at him. But as he deals with family problems, he discovers many surprises hidden in his own tale.

Mrs. Spitzer’s Garden

By Edith Pattou

A sweet book written by a local author. Mrs. Spitzer is a kindergarten teacher that gently nurtures the children in her class, just like a gardener nurtures his garden each year. This book is dedicated to a kindergarten teacher at Tremont Elementary in Upper Arlington.

My Weird School Series

By Dan Gutman

A goofy series about strange happenings at an elementary school. Each book focuses on a different main character. Kids love to try to solve the mystery before it unfolds. A great series for reluctant beginning readers.