May to June can be a hectic time of the year, comparable to September and December! There are so many end-of-year events, last-minute to-dos, ceremonies, testing, cleaning up the classroom, and more (what did I forget?)…it can be hard to keep students’ interests. What do we do with our class when everything is coming to a close? When all else fails, grab a picture book to read aloud!
A read aloud is just what you need during downtime moments, to gather students’ attention, during transitions, and to give students a chance to rest and relax into the world of a book. Picture books, especially at the end of the year, fosters connections, helps students process big feelings, reflect on the year, and inspires them as well.
Attention spans may be shrinking and excitement may be growing, but one thing that never loses its magic? A wonderful read-aloud. We have created a list of five meaningful picture books for elementary grades just perfect for the end of the school year.
#1 I’m Glad I Was Your Teacher, by Brianna Frizell
I follow the author, Brianna Frizell, on Instagram (@teachingthetinies), and I love that this teacher published her own picture book for her students. It’s one of the most perfect read-alouds for the end of the year, and it sums up what every teacher is feeling and wants to express to their little family of students as a school year ends. It’s an adorable and quick read-aloud.
Publisher’s Synopsis:
I’m Glad I Was Your Teacher is the heartwarming story of a teacher reflecting back fondly on the moments and memories she shared with her class over the last school year. Together, they recount their success, growth, and all the smiles the previous year brought them–a feeling both teachers and students alike can relate to well year after year. Through beautiful, vibrant illustrations and a heartfelt message written straight from the heart of a teacher, this story is sure to become a classic that you find yourself reaching for year after year.
#2 Only One You, by Linda Kranz
I love how this read-aloud is a great send-off to students as they move to another grade. This book offers great reminders and words of encouragement to embrace your uniqueness. It also has practical, wise, and reflective life tips such as “Appreciate art,” and “Drift away with a good book.”
Publisher’s Synopsis:
There’s only one you in this great big world. Make it a better place. Adri’s mama and papa share some of the wisdom they have gained through the years with their eager son. Their words, simple and powerful, are meant to comfort and guide him as he goes about exploring the world. This exquisitely illustrated book explodes with color and honest insights. Kranz’s uniquely painted rockfish, set against vibrant blue seas, make an unforgettable and truly special impression. Only One You will inspire parents and children of all ages as they swim through the sea of life.
#3 Maddi’s Fridge, by Lois Brandt
Maddi’s Fridge by Lois Brandt is a wonderful end-of-year read-aloud. It gently weaves together themes of friendship, empathy, courage, and taking action to help others, making it the perfect story to spark meaningful reflection as students head into summer. At the end of the school year, your students have formed a bond, making it easier to discuss a book like this with such a deep theme. This picture book doesn’t just tell a story; it encourages readers to take action. It’s a great way to wrap up the year with a conversation about how students can help others over the summer, in their neighborhoods, or as they move into a new school year. You’ll also shed a tear or two as you read.
Publisher’s Synopsis:
With humor and warmth, this children’s picture book raises awareness about poverty and hunger. Best friends Sofia and Maddi live in the same neighborhood, go to the same school, and play in the same park, but while Sofia’s fridge at home is full of nutritious food, the fridge at Maddi’s house is empty. Sofia learns that Maddi’s family doesn’t have enough money to fill their fridge and promises Maddi she’ll keep this discovery a secret. But because Sofia wants to help her friend, she’s faced with a difficult decision: to keep her promise or tell her parents about Maddi’s empty fridge. Filled with colorful artwork, this storybook addresses issues of poverty with honesty and sensitivity while instilling important lessons in friendship, empathy, trust, and helping others. A call to action section, with six effective ways for children to help fight hunger and information on antihunger groups, is also included.
Jennifer Garner reads this aloud beautifully and with so much compassion.
#4 The Loud Librarian, by Jenna Beatrice
The Loud Librarian is a fantastic end-of-year read-aloud because it celebrates self-expression, personal growth, and the power of finding your voice. It contains an empowering message to embrace what makes you unique, a great lesson to leave with students as they head into summer and new adventures. It also encourages the beauty of books and libraries, sparking inspiration for students to visit one in the summer. With playful illustrations and a humorous storyline, it keeps students laughing and engaged, even during those high-energy final days of school.
Publisher’s Synopsis:
A little librarian with a larger-than-life voice finds her place in this sweet and uproarious picture book about being true to yourself—no shushing required! Penelope is perfect for the job of student-librarian. Friendly? Check. Helpful? Check. Book lover? Check. There’s just one snag. Penelope is…LOUD. Bookcases may topple and the ground may quake at the sound of her voice, but Penelope is determined to prove she’s perfect for the job and stay true to herself. Can a little librarian with a big voice find a place where she belongs?
#5 Wherever You Go by Pat Zietlow Miller
Especially meaningful for graduating students, this picture book is sweet, beautiful, and reflective. It’s a wonderful send-off for summertime and students moving on to other schools. The beautifully whimsical illustrations make it stand out and will captivate any child’s attention.
Publisher’s Synopsis:
Join an adventurous rabbit and his animal friends as they journey over steep mountain peaks, through bustling cityscapes, and down long, winding roads to discover the magical worlds that lie just outside their doors. Award-winning and New York Times bestselling author Pat Zietlow Miller’s lilting rhyme and New York Times bestselling illustrator Eliza Wheeler’s enchanting, lush landscapes celebrate the possibilities that wait beyond the next bend in the road–the same road that will always lead you home again.
Conclusion
A great read-aloud can be the glue that holds those final school days together. It reminds students (and ourselves) how much growth, joy, and learning have occurred over the past year. So, take a breath, grab your favorite book, and soak up these last read-aloud moments with your class. You’ve all earned them.
