60 Best Books for 1st Graders (6 Year Olds)
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Find the best easy (beginning) chapter books for 1st graders, 6-year-olds, in early elementary school. At this stage, kids learning to read may be ready for the easiest chapter books like the titles on this list.
As a former teacher and a parent of two, I know how important it is to find engaging books for kids. Keep reading to find my top picks to share with your children or students.
You might be wondering how old a child is in 1st grade. A first grader is usually 6 years old but can also be 7 years old.
Books for 1st graders generally may include early reader books. But as young readers grow in their reading abilities, they will transition into chapter books.
Chapter books are books meant for beginning readers with chapters and illustrations. The chapter books on this list are meant for ages 6 and 7 — because these are the easiest chapter books with 1 to 5 sentences per page, lots of illustrations, and engaging plots appealing to children.
Good chapter books for 1st graders are about topics in the child’s own daily life, such as friendship, play, sports, animals, and family. They include interesting pictures or photographs and are in a variety of genres, including fantasy, realistic, and nonfiction. You’ll also see many chapter books in a graphic novel format, which is popular with readers — and 100% counts as real reading.
If your reader prefers a funny book or even an easy picture book, let them read whatever they want — choice is everything.
Don’t forget the importance of reading aloud to your children! Kids in 1st grade still need and want adults to read aloud to them. Find 1st grade books to read aloud on this book list.
What if you have an advanced 1st grade reader?
If you’re looking for beginning chapter books that are a bit more difficult than these, you’ll find those on beginning chapter books for 2nd graders, around 7 year olds.
What if your child needs easy reader books for grade 1?
If you are looking for early reader books, see this book list for the best titles.
How do you know if a book is at the right reading level for your child?
1. Glance over the density and size of the text. Look at the illustrations. At this age and reading level, you’ll want to find beginning chapter books that have bigger text sizes and plenty of illustrations.
2. Kids can also do the five finger test to see if the book is just right, too easy, or too hard. This “test” asks kids to hold up a finger for every missed word. If a child misses more than five words on a page, the book is too challenging for them. Remember, if this happens, remind the young reader that they’ll progress and eventually be able to read that book.
3. If you know your child’s DRA or Guided Reading level, use these to help YOU, the adult, not your child, in making book selections. But please don’t limit children to specific levels. Remember that kids are more than a number or letter, and these levels aren’t perfect. I’m only adding them to help you figure out books that your child can read.
(Note: Sometimes it is okay to read books that are too hard. But, I’ve found that with many beginning readers who are building confidence and efficacy, difficult books can lead to a lack of confidence and low motivation to read. Use your best judgment. If they want to read a difficult book, give them help.)
Download a free pdf printable list:
Best Chapter Books for 1st Graders (Ages 6 and 7)
But there are so many beginning chapter books that I LOVE to share with children. Here are incredible 1st grade books that kids can’t put down. Also, you can encourage your children to reread their favorites from this list. Rereading builds fluency and confidence. (For harder beginning chapter books, visit this page — books for 7 year olds in 2nd grade.)
Scholastic Acorn Chapter Books for 1st Graders
Do You Like My Bike? (Hello, Hedgehog!) by Norm Feuti
FRIENDSHIP
Not only is this written in comic panels, but the dialogue is in bubbles in colors unique to the character, making this a supportive first graphic novel experience. Hedgehog can’t wait to show his friend Harry his new bike. Darling stories of friendship and bike riding. One of our favorites!
Poppleton by Cynthia Rylant, illustrated by Mark Teague
REALISTIC
Poppleton gets tired of city life and moves to a small house with a garden in a small town. He befriends his kind neighbor Cherry Sue, goes to the library to read adventure stories, and helps his friend when he’s sick.
A Friend for Dragon by Dav Pilkey
FRIENDSHIP
This feels a bit more challenging than the other Acorn books. It’s a sweet story about making a new friend.
Sparkly New Friends (Unicorn and Yeti) by Heather Ayris Burnell, illustrated by Hazel Quintanilla
MAGICAL CREATURE
Unicorn helps Yeti be grateful and confident about who he is and where he lives. Then Yeti helps Unicorn try new things like a snowball fight. Short stories of friendship between two mythical creatures, what could be better!?
Mister Shivers Shadow in the Woods and Other Scary Stories (An Acorn Book) by Max Brallier
SCARY
Yes, some kids like scary stories. (I’m surprised because I don’t.) But if you know a child who does, this book with easy-to-read text and short, illustrated stories will become a much-loved favorite.
Rainbow Days written by Valerie Bolling, illustrated by Kai Robinson
REALISTIC
In this new Acorn series, Zita and her dog love making art together. Even when it’s rainy and gray, they use color and glitter to brighten up the walls inside. A cute first book!
MORE SCHOLASTIC ACORN BOOK REVIEWS
Chapter Books for 1st Graders
The Cozy Home written by Ame Dyckman, illustrated by Mark Teague
In this charming story with appealing art, Cat, Bat, and Rat move into a new home together where they share, read, sleep, and play jokes on each other. The text includes a good amount of repetition, which I like, and there are only one and two-syllable words.
Nate the Great by Marjorie Weinman Sharmat, illustrated by Marc Simont
MYSTERY
DRA 18
Guided Reading K
Nate introduces readers to how to be a detective and find things— even if it’s for small cases such as a friend’s lost picture. Don’t miss the learning activities located at the end of the book. (Also on: Wholesome Easy Chapter Books for Boys)
Ricky Ricotta’s Mighty Robot The Voodoo Vultures from Venus by Dav Pilkey, illustrated by Dan Santat
SCI-FI
DRA 20
Guided Reading L
Kudos to Dav Pilkey and Dan Santat for creating such an action-packed, engaging series for young readers with fantastic full-color illustrations. I predict that once your kid reads this first book, they’ll want all the books in this beginning chapter book series.
Meet Mo and Jo: The Boulder Brothers by Sarah Lynn, illustrated by Pierre Collet-Derby
HUMOR
DRA 16
Guided Reading I
If your first-grade child likes humerous stories, they’ll love these silly stories about two adventurous cave boys. Readers will find a combination of comic bubble dialogue and narrative text. For example, “The skunk liked the stink. Can MO and Jo run faster than the skunk?” is the narrative text while the dialogue bubbles on the same page are “Uh-oh! He mad” and “Run, Mo!” Goofy, but it works.
Narwhal Unicorn of the Sea by Ben Clanton (series)
HUMOR/FRIENDSHIP
DRA 24
Guided Reading M
Narwhal is excited to meet Jellyfish, his new imaginary friend who is imagining Narwhal at the same time. You’ll love their non-imaginary adventures including forming a pod, having parties, eating waffles, and imagining. This is a feel-good friendship adventure told in graphic (cartoon) format that 6-year-olds love!
Pinch and Dash and the Terrible Couch by Michael J. Daley
FRIENDSHIP
Perfect for very beginning readers who don’t want to read nonsensical phonics books. Pinch and Dash has charming characters, a silly problem, and a perfect ending.
The Quiet Boat Ride and Other Stories (Fox + Chick) by Sergio Ruzzier
ADVENTURE / FRIENDSHIP
There’s such a sweetness in the playful adventures of two friends who, like Frog and Toad, have distinct personalities yet always support each other. That combined with the delectable comic panel illustrations plus easy text in dialogue bubbles make this book a new favorite.
See the Cat: Three Stories About a Dog by David LaRochelle, illustrated by Mike Wohnoutka
HUMOR
Kids who like silly stories will want to read this story repeatedly! Read the story that the Cat narrator tells, then read Dog’s arguments disagreeing with Cat’s story. The silliness, repetition of words, and short text on each page makes this an excellent 1st grade book.
The Infamous Ratsos by Kara Lareau, illustrated by Matt Myers
HUMOR
DRA 20
Guided Reading L
I loved this book! Louie and Ralphie Ratso keep trying to do mean, tough-guy things but every time it ends up helping someone. Ultimately, both boys and their dad decide to go with kindness but before they do, their experiences are very funny.
Bear and Bird The Picnic by Jarvis
I adore these darling stories of friendship adventures full of miscommunications. For example, in one story, Bear forgets to pack the picnic, but instead of telling Bird, Bear figures out something better, and it all works out because the friends are adaptable. Best friends forever! If your beginning readers love Frog and Toad, try this book next!
Princess in Black by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale, illustrated by LeUyen Pham
FANTASY
DRA 24
Guided Reading
Level M
Princess Magnolia isn’t a regular royal — she’s also a monster-fighting superhero. These girl-power adventures are also funny and entertaining. (If you like The Princess in Black, you’ll also like these books.)
Doggo & Pupper by Katherine Applegate, illustrated by Charlie Alder
REALISTIC
Readers will adore this darling, heartwarming friendship story with repetition, minimal text, and illustrations that narrate much of the story. Doggo’s life is the same old thing –that is, until Pupper comes along. At first, Doggo is annoyed by Pupper’s energetic antics but changes his mind when Pupper returns from obedience school.
Kitty and Dragon by Meika Hashimoto, illustrated by Gillian Reid
FANTASY / MAGICAL CREATURES
In three sweet friendship stories, meet Kitty and her new friend, Dragon, who live together in a cave. The first story is about Kitty finding the cave and her new friend. Buy the book and or read the darling stories on the popular Epic Books for Kids website.
King and Kayla and the Case of the Lost Tooth by Dori Hillestad Butler, illustrated by Nancy Meyers
MYSTERY
King is Kayla’s beloved dog. Only he’s not just her best friend, but in this story, he also helps her find her missing lost tooth. This chapter book series for 1st graders is about a girl who solves mysteries.
Esme’s Birthday Conga Line by Lourdes Heyer, illustrated by Marissa Valdez
REALISTIC
Esme lives with her grandparents, but since they didn’t plan a birthday party, she decides to plan one for herself. Her plan involves her building’s neighbors. With her can-do attitude, Enthusiastic Esme is sure to be a favorite with 1st grade readers!
Bug Scouts Out in the Wild by Mike Lowery (graphic novel)
HUMOR
Beginning readers will love this exciting and hilarious friendship adventure graphic novel–with incredible art from author/illustrator Mike Lowery! Three bug friends have a super secret headquarters where they get to earn bug badges. The friends start on their first badge–foraging! But it doesn’t go as plan.
Bug Scouts Camp Out by Mike Lowery
HUMOR
The Bug Scouts are excited to spend the night camping in a tent. First, they spray bug spray and set up the tent. Later, at the campfire, they sing songs and tell stories but, they get scared of the monster noises. Now, what will they do? Filled with hilarious dialogue and bugs who problem-solve like the scouts they are, this is a delightful graphic novel chapter book for 1st graders.
Scholastic Branches Books for 1st Graders
Have you seen the beginning chapter books for 1st graders from Scholastic Branches? They are high-interest and easy to read with colorful illustrations. Plus, if your kids get hooked, they all have more books in the series. See what you think about these 1st grade book choices.
Happy Paws: Layla and the Bots by Vicky Fang, illustrated by Christine Nishiyama
STEM
Layla wants to help her amusement park owner friend keep the park open. She investigates the problem then figures out a solution…people want to bring their dogs. She brainstorms ideas and invents new rides that help solve the problem. An entertaining, STEM-focused story.
Missy’s Super Duper Royal Deluxe Picture Day by Susan Nees
REALISTIC
DRA 20
Guided Reading L
This is a great 1st grade book for children just beginning to read chapter books with bright and friendly illustrations to match the fun antics of Missy. (1 – 4 sentences per page.)
Bo’s Magical New Friend (Unicorn Diaries) by Rebecca Elliott
FANTASY
I’m giddy about this magical, sweet new chapter book series written in diary format. Bo (short for Rainbow) shares about his life in Sparklegrove Forest, where he lives along with other magical creatures. The plot is about a new friend, disappointments, helping others, and figuring out what’s really important in life — friendship!
All Paws on Deck (Haggis and Tank Unleashed #1) by Jessica Young (series)
ADVENTURE
DRA 24
Guided Reading M
In a word: HILARIOUS! These two dog friends with opposite personalities sail on a fun and silly pirate adventure. Try these books for a 1st grader to read; they will fall in love with Tank and Haggis. (2-4 sentences per page and lots of colorful illustrations.)
Kung Pow Chicken Let’s Get Cracking! by Cyndi Marko
ADVENTURE
DRA 24
Guided Reading M
Open this early chapter book for 1st graders, and you’ll think you’re reading a comic or picture book because it’s that colorful and full of speech bubbles. Gordon Blue, an ordinary second-grade chicken accidentally develops superpowers in his uncle’s laboratory. When chickens start losing their feathers, it’s up to Kung Pow Chicken, and his little brother, Egg Drop, to solve this catastrophe.
Press Start! Game Over, Super Rabbit Boy! by Thomas Flintham
ADVENTURE
DRA 24
Guided Reading M
Gamers will love these easy-to-read meta adventures about a boy playing a video game where evil King Viking and his robot army are trying to ruin everyone’s fun. Super Rabbit Boy, the game’s hero, must level up inside the game to save the town. Colorful cartoons show the pixelated game paired with simple text for new readers.
Owl Diaries Eva’s Treetop Festival by Rebecca Elliott
DIARY
DRA 24
Guided Reading M
This series pops with cute diary entries with colorful illustrations; it’s just right for beginning readers, particularly girls. Eva writes in a diary about getting the Bloomtastic Festival put together and how she eventually learns to ask friends for help. (A few sentences per page, lots of picture support, a solid choice for 1st grade reading books.)
Olive & Beatrix The Super Smelly Moldy Blob by Amy Marie Stadelmann
FANTASY
DRA 24
Guided Reading M
It’s science fair time, and these twins, one who is a witch and one who is a super smart science nerd, are in it to win it. But the girls fight and their projects combine to form a huge green blog that absorbs everything. It will take both their skills to fix this slimy problem. This 1st grade book series is a great choice for readers who like science and magic.
Boris Gets a Lizard by Andrew Joyner
REALISTIC
DRA 24
Guided Reading M
Boris is a wildly imaginative boy who wants a pet Komodo dragon. In fact, it’s his wild imagination that prompts him to tell his entire class that he is getting a Komodo dragon. (Which isn’t exactly true. At all.) And, that same imagination saves the day when there is no Komodo Dragon but many excited visitors who Boris doesn’t want to disappoint. An appealing yet fabulous 1st grade book.
Catnapped! Puppy Pirates by Erin Soderbergh
ADVENTURE
DRA 24
Guided Reading M
Calling all dog lovers! Read about the most awesome pirate puppies who due to an unfortunate prank one pulled, are now prisoners on the pirate kitten’s ship –with no escape. This is a charming and funny rollicking adventure and #3 in the new Puppy Pirate series.
The Magic Mirror (Once Upon a Fairy Tale) by Anna Staniszewski, illustrated by Macky Pamintuan
FANTASY
DRA 28-30
Guided Reading N
When Kara learns the ice princess is in trouble, she and her best friend Zed travel to the ice palace to help fix a magic mirror. They also want to help the argumentative sisters get along and share their beloved pet monkey between them. Will the friends be able to solve both problems?
The Last Firehawk: The Ember Stone by Katrina Charman, illustrated by Jeremy Norton
FANTASY
Tag is an owl in training to become an Owl of Valor. One day while playing tag with his squirrel friend, Skyla, Tag finds a golden egg that hatches into the last-ever Firehawk. Tag and friends must keep the Firehawk, Blaze, safe. Then they’ll quest to find the magical stone that may save their land from the Vulture and his army of tiger bats. This easy chapter book for 1st graders introduces kids to epic fantasy stories about good vs. evil.
Pug Blasts Off (Diary of a Pug) by Kyla May
FRIENDSHIP
DRA 28, Guided Reading N
Narrated in diary format by a lovable pug named Bub with plenty of illustrations and large-sized text, we learn that Bub is afraid of water but loves to craft just like his person, Bella. In fact, he’s going to help her invent the best craft project ever. Unfortunately, disaster strikes when a mischievous squirrel interferes. Bub must face his biggest fears in order to fix things for Bella. Luckily, he’s a brilliant problem solver!
Beginning Chapter Books for 1st Graders Continued…
Meet Yasmin! by Saadia Faruqui, illustrated by Hatem Aly
REALISTIC
Yasmin is an exuberant girl interested in everything from exploring to building to fashion. This book tells four short stories from Yasmin’s life, all in chapters with lively, full-color illustrations. Each story shows Yasmin as a creative problem solver even when things get hard. Her Pakistani American culture is embedded throughout the story.
The Fabled Stables Willa the Wisp by Jonathan Auxier, illustrated by Olga Demidova
FANTASY / MAGICAL CREATURES
Auggie, the only human, lives on an island of mythical creatures but he’s lonely. When a new stall magically appears, Auggie enters and meets a Wisp hunted by ruthless magical poachers. It’s a darling start to a new chapter book series perfect for fantasy-loving readers.
Bink & Gollie Best Friends Forever by Kate DiCamillo and Alison McGhee, illustrated by Tony Fucile
ADVENTURE/FRIENDSHIP
DRA 24
Guided Reading M
The second book of funny Bink and Gollie (mis)adventures in friendship and life filled wonderful color illustrations. Get the first book here. This popular series is a favorite with many girls.
Fenway and the Bone Thieves by Victoria J. Coe, illustrated by Joanne Lew-Vriethoff
REALISTIC
Written from Fenway’s hilarious doggie point of view, readers will delight in Fenway’s complete bone obsession and his determination to keep it away from the squirrels. His paranoia leads to him burying the bone so NO one can find it, including him. His solution? Dig a million holes to find it. Read the next book, Fenway and the Frisbee Trick about Fenway learning a frisbee trick in his own, unique way.
Nugget and Hot Dog by Jason Tharp
HUMOR
Perfect for readers who like silliness, puns, and good conquering evil, this is the story of two friends, Dog and Nugget, who live in Gastropolis and start a kindness club to fight evil like the dastardly Dijon Mustard.
The Magic Tree House by Mary Pope Osborne
HISTORICAL MYSTERY
DRA 24
Guided Reading M
A MUST-READ series for all kids! These combine mystery, history, magic, and adventure as siblings Jack and Annie adventure through time. If you love The Magic Tree House series, you’ll also like these books.
Arnold and Louise The Great Lousweezie by Erica S. Perl, illustrated by Chris Chatterton
FRIENDSHIP
I like the simple text and illustrations in this easy chapter book series. Even better is the message of friendship. Arnold isn’t too sure that Louise can predict the future, but he is kind enough to find a way to make sure Louise knows she’s valued.
Our Principal is a Scaredy-Cat by Stephanie Calmenson, illustrated by Aaron Blecha
SCARY
Get ready for a silly story with an edge of scary! The principal, Mr. Bundt, finds a hat on the way to school. He never realizes (*but readers do) that the hat belongs to someone — and that someone wants it back. Scared at the voice who demands the hat’s return, he asks the magician for help. Luckily, the (skeleton) owner gets his hat back and stops haunting Mr. Bundt. Goofy and fun.
Sofia Martinez My Vida Loca by Jacquline Jules (series)
REALISTIC
DRA 24
Guided Reading M
Perfecto! My Vida Loca is a warm-hearted beginning chapter book about the adventures of a spunky girl named Sofia — from her singing (that annoys everyone except abuela) to a cooking mishap of arroz con leche that her familia helps her fix. I love the bright pink text that indicates the Spanish words (maybe 1 or 2 a page). Illustrations are fun, capturing the emotions and action perfectamente.
Pug Pals Two’s a Crowd by Flora Ahn
FUNNY
DRA 20 – 24
Guided Reading M
Sunny’s whole life is turned upside down when her owner brings home a new sister, Rosy. It’s hard to share her owner’s time, and especially hard to share her toys. Adorable illustrations show these personality-filled pugs who eventually develop a solid sister bond while looking for Sunny’s lost Mr. Bunny toy.
Sky & Ty Howdy, Partner! by Steve Breen
FRIENDSHIP & ADVENTURE
Kids will love this charming and funny early chapter graphic novel about a girl named Sky who wants a pet dinosaur. And she does find a dinosaur named Ty who informs her that he is no one’s pet! With Western flare (hot diggity, yee-haw) they’ll have a dance-off with a bear, deliver a package for Mr. Rigby, make a slogan for themselves, and go to a hootenanny. Finish the book with a fun “Learn to Speak Western” section.
Searching for Stinkodon by Megan McDonald, illustrated by Erwin Madrid
REALISTIC
Judy’s brother Stink will not stop digging up their backyard until he finds dinosaur bones. Eventually, Judy finds hides a bone for him to find. But in a surprising twist, Stink finds something else — is it a real bone from a sabertooth tiger? You’ll love the sweet relationship between these siblings!
Jessica Finch in Pig Trouble by Megan McDonald, illustrated by Erwin Madrid
REALISTIC
410L
DRA 24
Guided Reading M
Jessica Finch is a delightful early chapter book with exceptionally pleasing and colorful illustrations. Jessica wants nothing more than a pig for a pet. For her birthday. When a misunderstanding happens with her best friend, Judy Moody, she learns a valuable lesson about not making assumptions and calling people names. This is one of my top picks for an early chapter book, I loved it! BOXED SET
Dragons of Ember City: Happy Spark Day by Shane Richardson and Sarah Marino
FANTASY
This is a sweet story of dragon friends with appealing, full-color illustrations that pop off the page! Three young dragon friends feel excited to get their magical spark at Spark Day. Afterward, there’s a big celebration, but two of the dragons get carried away with their fun and break the special disco ball. Three of them work together to fix it using all their Sparks, and their mayor predicts they’ll do great things with their magical powers.
Kitty and the Moonlight Rescue by Paula Harrison, illustrated by Jenny Lovlie
SUPERHERO
Kittie’s mom is a superhero with cat powers, but Kitty isn’t ready to do what her mom does. However, when her mom is gone, a cat named Figaro comes to her that needs help. Kitty wants to help so she decides to be brave. Wearing her cat costume, she travels through the night to help her new cat friends– and discovers she can do more than she thought possible.
Mia Mayhem Is a Superhero! by Kara West, illustrated by Leeza Hernandez
FANTASY
When Mia gets accepted into the Superhero training program, she learns that she is SUPER. She even learns that her parents are, also. After school at her new superhero training, she has a disastrous first day and learns that it takes work to become a superhero. Black and white illustrations, bigger print, and an exciting story make this a winning series for growing readers.
Scaredy Monster by Meika Hashimoto, illustrated by Steve Lambe
FRIENDSHIP
Read about a lovable monster with a typical kid life. The stories are about losing a tooth, riding a bike, and going to a slumber party. I particularly love the sweet relationship he has with his mom. Sure to be a new kid-favorite beginning chapter book.
Hero Dog! by Hilde Lysiak and Matthew Lysiak, illustrated by Joanne Lew-Vriethoff
MYSTERY
DRA 28
Guided Reading O
A writer named Hilde and her sister Izzy help their neighbors find out who is stealing baked goods from people’s homes. Hilde hopes she can solve this case and write about it for the Orange Street News. The sisters observe carefully. Finally, they put together the clues with the help of a dog with a good nose and crack the case.
Eerie Elementary: The School is Alive! by Jack Chabert, illustrated by Sam Ricks
CREEPY
DRA 34
Guided Reading O
Sam isn’t thrilled about becoming a hall monitor. Especially when he discovers that the school is ALIVE and trying to harm him and the other students. Sam has quite a wild adventure trying to save the students from the school. I think kids who like sort of scary things (it’s not too bad) will enjoy this book. Box set of 6 books here.
Geeger the Robot Goes to School by Jarret Lerner
SCI-FI
Geeger the robot eats everything. When he starts attending school, this is a problem and he makes all sorts of mistakes. Fortunately, his kind teachers help him learn what to eat and when to eat– which helps him make new friends. Cute and silly. Sure to be a new favorite book for 1st graders.
Our Principal is a Frog by Stephanie Calmenson, illustration Aaron Blecha
HUMOR
DRA 28-30
Guided Reading N
I love this SHORT, engaging 1st grade book about a great school principal who is accidentally turned into a frog by a bumbling magician. But, this is one dedicated leader. He finds a way to keep running the school — even as an amphibian.
Donut Feed the Squirrels by Mika Song
HUMOR
Norma and Belly are squirrel friends who really, really want a donut. Can they work together, sneak in a food truck, and have the biggest ever donut party ever? Minimal text, plenty of silliness, and a lovely surprise ending!
Rainbow Magic Fairies by Daisy Meadows
FANTASY
These are very predictable but kids ADORE these books, they are some of the most checked-out books at our library. They’re about two human girls who are trusted to help the magical fairies search for something Jack Frost’s goblins stole. (Every. Single. Time.)
Geraldine Pu and Her Lunch Box, Too by Maggie P. Chang
REALISTIC
Ghis beginning graphic novel shows the hurt and angry feelings that happen when a boy makes fun of Geraldine’s lunch. Initially, Geraldine feels awful and wants to bring something different to eat but she eventually embraces her favorite foods prepared by her Amah and helps another boy do the same — even when other kids say it’s stinky. A wonderful back-to-school graphic novel that shows the importance of pride in your own identity and acceptance of differences.
Katie Woo’s Neighborhood by Fran Manushkin, illustrated by Laura Zarrin
Short stories about cheerful, positive Katie, a girl who visits the dentist, bakes cupcakes, visits a farm, and rescues a kitten.
Best Beginning Nonfiction Books for 1st Graders
Fly Guy Presents Sharks by Tedd Arnold
DRA 24
Guided Reading M
Visit the aquarium with Buzz and Fly Guy to learn about sharks in this terrific easy non-fiction reader. I LOVE how Arnold combines cartoons with photographs!
Fly Guy Presents Snakes by Tedd Arnold
DRA 24
Guided Reading M
Fly Guy and Buzz visit the zoo’s Snake House to learn all about reptiles like snakes. The facts are informative yet written in a way that makes them accessible to growing readers. These books for 1st graders are very popular.
Fly Guy Presents: Space by Tedd Arnold DRA 18 Guided Reading K
Kids love the fiction Fly Guy stories but did you know the series has a nonfiction companion series, also? These are at a 1st grade reading level and good choices for informational books.
National Geographic Penguins! by Anne Schreiber
DRA 24 Guided Reading M
Teachers love these nonfiction books for 1st graders because the information is solid and the series is perfect for readers learning to comprehend nonfiction.
Willow The Therapy Dog (Doggy Defenders)adob
Willow works as a therapy dog to help people feel better if they are sad — like patients in the hospital and students at a school, and retired veterans. And the photos of Willow in her pajamas after a long day of work are absolutely adorable.
Amazing Dogs DK Level 2 by Laura Buller
Not only is this nonfiction book relatable because kids love dogs, but includes fascinating facts. (I learned a few things myself.) Talk about a great high-interest nonfiction book for 1st graders!
I am Martin Luther King, Jr. (Ordinary People Change the World) by Brad Meltzer, illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos
This nonfiction book for 1st gradres is another great nonfiction series for growing readers. The text to picture ratio is perfect and the narrative is interesting.
*GO TO All nonfiction book recommendations for beginning readers.*
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