The new school year can be an exciting prospect (even if only for the thrill of stationery shopping) but it can also be daunting, no matter your age. Fortunately, we have lots of books that can provide reassurance! Regardless of whether your kid is five years-old or in their teens, try one of these books to offer solidary and help build their confidence and resilience.
✏️ Picture books about going to school
How to Go to Big School by Sarah Ayoub, illustrated by Mimi Purnell – a reassuring look at going to school, full of practical details that show kids what to expect.
My First Day by Nic Naitanui, illustrated by Fátima Anaya – perfect for kids feeling stressed about starting a new chapter, who need reassurance or help finding strategies to manage their anxiety.
Going to Big School by Laura Sieveking, illustrated by Danielle McDonald – this fun book covers all the emotions kids might be feeling in the lead up to school (and comes with a poster to help them learn their ABCs!).
How to have the Best School Year Ever by Jess Sanders, illustrated by Andrea Onishi – this books will help kids through all the highs and lows of the school year.
🎒 Fun reads about starting high school
Cross My Heart and Never Lie by Nora Dasnes, translated by Matt Bagguley – perfect for kids dealing with friendship drama, first crushes and questions of identity.
The Taylors by Jen Calonita – a fun story about making new friends and stepping out of your comfort zone.
Dirrarn by Carl Merrison & Hakea Hustler – a beautiful book about the challenges of leaving your home and family for boarding school.
The Hits and Misses of Melody Moss by Helen Dallimore – a hilarious look at starting secondary school, losing friends and coping with family, all at the same time!
🚌 Books about changing schools for middle-graders
The Paperbark Tree Committee by Karys McEwen – a sweet book about feeling at home in a new place, dealing with bullying and the importance of siblings.
The New Girl by Cassandra Calin – perfect for kids moving to a new country, or those facing periods for the first time.
Fresh Start by Gale Galligan – a funny look at putting down roots after making an embarrassing first impression.
Curlfriends: New in Town by Sharee Miller – for fans of the babysitter's club, this is a beautiful story about finding new friends that embrace your uniqueness.
And for kids who are feeling left behind because one of their friends has moved schools, try Thunderhead by Sophie Beer.
📖 Books for teens starting at a new school
I'm Not Really Here by Gary Lonesborough – this sweet romance deals with the difficulties of moving towns, making friends, and deciding whether or not to come out to your crush.
Drift by Pip Harry – a verse novel about two lonely teens who are struggling to make friends at school, but who find connection over their desire to protect a swarm of bees.
Weaving Us Together by Lay Maloney – Jean is a non-binary Aboriginal teen trying to start fresh in a new town, whose new friends help them face pain from their family's past.
How to Be Normal by Ange Crawford – a nuanced look at dealing with a difficult home life while trying to make friends and live authentically at a new school.
Want more recommendations? Visit or call one of our shops and one of our passionate booksellers will be happy to help you find the right book. 📖
