If there’s one thing I believe in as a teacher, it’s the magic of picture books! No matter the grade level, a well-chosen picture book can spark curiosity, inspire deep thinking, and bring a smile to every student’s face. As a 5th-grade teacher in California and the heart behind Ramona Recommends, I’m thrilled to share some of my absolute favorite books to use in the classroom. These stories bring history to life, teach valuable life lessons, and, most importantly, make reading a joyful experience!
Books to Get Your Students Talking, Thinking, and Laughing
📖 Attack of the Scones by Josh Funk – A mystery unfolds at the Queen’s Tea Party as Lady Pancake and Sir French Toast must solve the case of the missing scones!
📖 There’s a Frog in My Throat by Pat Street – This hilarious collection of animal idioms will have your students giggling while expanding their figurative language knowledge.
📖 Pies from Nowhere by Dee Romito – A powerful true story about Georgia Gilmore, a woman who used her cooking skills to help fund the Montgomery Bus Boycott.
📖 Tricky Chopsticks by Sylvia Chen and Fanny Liem – A heartwarming story about perseverance and embracing family traditions, even when they feel challenging.
📖 Tell the Truth, B.B. Wolf by Judy Sierra and J. Otto Seibold – A funny take on the Big Bad Wolf as he tries to clear his name in a storytelling session gone wrong.
☀️ Heat Wave by Helen Ketteman and Scott Goto – A tall tale set during a sweltering summer that will have students roaring with laughter.
🤝 Meesha Makes Friends by Tom Percival – A touching story about a girl who struggles with making friends but learns to connect in her own unique way.
🌟 The Story of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles and George Ford – The inspiring true story of Ruby Bridges, who bravely integrated an all-white school at just six years old.
🦊 Valentine Foxes by Clyde Watson – A charming tale of teamwork and love as the fox family prepares for a special Valentine’s Day surprise.
🍫 Love Monster and the Last Chocolate by Rachel Bright – A sweet and funny story about sharing and the power of kindness.
Books That Make History and STEM Fun!
🛁 President Taft is Stuck in the Bath by Mac Barnett and Chris Van Dusen – A comical retelling of a presidential predicament that will have students laughing and learning.
🎡 Mr. Ferris and His Wheel by Kathryn Gibbs Davis and Gilbert Ford – The incredible true story of how the Ferris Wheel became the centerpiece of the 1893 World’s Fair.
🌵 Nobody Hugs a Cactus by Carter Goodrich – A funny and sweet story about an isolated cactus learning the importance of friendship.
💧 We Are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom – A stunning and lyrical book about protecting our planet’s water sources, inspired by Indigenous activism.
💳 A Credit Card Takes Charge by Kimberley Wilson and Mark Hoffmann – A clever introduction to financial literacy through the adventures of a credit card learning its worth.
Books That Spark Creativity and Fun
🌈 In-Between Things by Priscilla Tey – A whimsical exploration of the spaces between things, making for a great discussion on perspective and imagination.
🍲 Chowder Rules! by Anna Crowley Redding and Vita Lane – A delightful battle of food traditions as a Maine chef fights for the right to use tomatoes in chowder.
🐷 Too Many Pigs and One Big Bad Wolf by Davide Cali and Marianna Balducci – A math-infused, storytelling twist on the classic Three Little Pigs.
🥤 Straw by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Scott Magoon – A clever story about slowing down and enjoying life, even if you’re just a straw!
🏀 Hoop Genius by John Coy and Joe Morse – The fascinating story of how James Naismith invented basketball, perfect for sports fans and history buffs alike.
These books bring something special to every classroom—whether you’re sparking discussions, introducing new concepts, or just looking for a read-aloud that brings joy.
Have you read any of these in your classroom? I’d love to hear which ones your students love the most—drop a comment and let’s chat all things picture books!
Ramona Recommends partners with affiliate platforms where commission may be earned based on clicks and or purchases, and I would love it if you decided to use the links above! Affiliate links help bloggers like me to fund the free content that we provide on our blogs.
