Martin Luther King Jr. Day offers a powerful opportunity to pause and reflect with students. It is a day to talk about fairness, courage, and using your voice for good. One of the most meaningful ways to do this in an elementary classroom is through picture books. Stories allow students to connect emotionally, ask thoughtful questions, and see how big ideas can grow from small actions.

If you are searching for MLK picture books for the classroom that are engaging, age appropriate, and discussion worthy, these titles are excellent places to start.

Martin’s Big Words by Doreen Rappaport
This picture book introduces students to Dr. King’s life using his own powerful words. The repeated focus on language highlights the impact words can have on the world.
Classroom use: Analyze theme and author’s message or have students collect and respond to Dr. King’s quotes that stand out to them.

My Daddy, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Martin Luther King III
Told from the perspective of his son, this story shows Dr. King as both a leader and a father, helping students connect to him on a personal level.
Classroom use: Use for character analysis or as a discussion starter about balancing family, responsibility, and courage.

I Have a Dream illustrated by Kadir Nelson
This illustrated version of Dr. King’s famous speech allows students to experience his exact words supported by powerful visuals.
Classroom use: Practice close reading with selected excerpts or have students write and illustrate their own “dream” statements.

Be a King: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Dream and You by Carole Boston Weatherford
This book encourages students to see how Dr. King’s values apply to everyday choices and actions.
Classroom use: Create a class anchor chart on ways students can show kindness and fairness or write personal reflections on how they can “be a king.”

When Martin Luther King Jr. Wore Roller Skates by Mark Ressler
By focusing on Dr. King’s childhood, this story helps students understand that leaders grow and learn over time.
Classroom use: Identify character traits or connect the story to lessons about perseverance and learning from mistakes.

Martin and Anne: The Kindred Spirits of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Anne Frank by Nancy Churnin
This beautiful story highlights the parallel lives of two iconic figures born in the same year. Despite living in different parts of the world and facing different types of prejudice, both Martin and Anne believed in the power of hope and the goodness of people.
Classroom use: Use this for comparative biography and theme analysis. Discuss what it means to be a “kindred spirit” and how hope can be a tool for change.

📚 Featured Resource: Martin and Anne Picture Book Activities

If you want to dive deeper into these themes, my Martin and Anne “Print & Implement” Resource is designed specifically for upper elementary students to practice critical ELA standards while building community.

What’s Inside:

• Word Study: Focus on Tier 2 and Tier 3 vocabulary like kindred, competition, and protest using Student Friendly Definitions (SFD).
• Biography Key Points: A graphic organizer to help students jot down about the parallel lives of Martin and Anne, identifying key life events and commonalities.
• Quote Reflection: Students will draw an illustration to respond to a powerful quotes from Anne Frank.
• Inspiration & Writing: A personal reflection prompt that encourages students to find their own “kindred spirit” moment and write about how they can stand up for others in their own lives.

Teaching about Dr. King is not just about honoring the past. It is about helping students see their role in creating a more just and kind world. By using these MLK picture books for the classroom, you are building meaningful conversations that extend far beyond a single day.

Check out my favorite picture books of 2025 for more read aloud inspiration.

The post Powerful MLK Picture Books for the Classroom You Need appeared first on Ramona Recommends.

These 25 picture books are the winners for 2025 at Ramona Recommends. Each book was published in 2025. I kept a list in my journal when I found a book that I wanted to share at the end of the year that moved me, my students enjoyed, or was a book that kept thinking about. Here are my OPEN THE MAGIC contender picture books of 2025. 

I categorized the books by topics that had an overarching theme, though most can be used across many subject areas. To share a bit of my heart with you, I’ve included my personal reflections on why each title earned its spot on this list in italics below the descriptions.

Courtney’s Confetti Winner:

These Are My Rocks
A young boy proudly showcases his unique collection while teaching readers that the true value of a treasure lies in the personal story behind it.

This book moved me so much that I read it about 5 times in a row because the message was so powerful and made me think about all my collections. This was my TOP selection for 2025. 

Math/Science:

Stalactite and Stalagmite
This rhythmic exploration dives deep underground to explain the “growing” differences between these cave formations in a way that is easy for kids to visualize.

I Love Blueberries!
Readers follow the journey of a tiny seed to a tasty snack, discovering the fascinating life cycle of one of nature’s favorite super-fruits.

If you haven’t read I Love Strawberries, grab that one next!

The Baker’s Dozen
When a new chef arrives with delicious doughnuts and a secret about what a “baker’s dozen” actually means, he must convince a team of twelve rigid bakers that there is always room for one more.

This book is great to teach the concept of a dozen, but also fits well in SEL to teach about friendships and not excluding anyone. 

So Tortoise Dug (Porquia Tale)
Through a clever folktale lens, this story explores animal behavior and the environmental impact of one determined tortoise’s digging.

I use this book to teach Porquia tales and character development. 

Don’t Trust Fish
This underwater adventure uses humor to teach kids about aquatic food chains and the importance of being observant in nature.

My students LOVED this one!

Holiday:

Fireworks
A vibrant celebration of light and sound that captures the excitement of community gatherings and the science behind the sparkle.

The illustrations in this one just move you, you know?!

Heartfelt
This sweet story explores the many ways we can show love and kindness, making it a perfect read for Valentine’s Day or any day meant for sharing.

Thankful is her sister story and what a powerful way to teach gratitude. You can learn more about what I did in my 5th grade class here.

The Snowball Fight
A chilly afternoon turns into a lesson on physics, strategy, and the pure joy of a classic winter tradition.

I read this the week before winter break and then we went outside and had a paper snowball fight. Yep, California in December does not equate to real snowball fights…. I am not sorry about that! My husband thinks I am half lizard. 🙂 

SEL:

The Hole
A thoughtful metaphor for grief and longing, this book helps children understand that while some “holes” never fully disappear, we can learn to grow around them.

This story wrecked me. I read it at home in my cozy book room on the 3rd anniversary of my mom passing. What a BEAUTIFUL interpretation of grief and how we all feel dark sometimes. 

Broken
This gentle narrative reassures readers that mistakes and “broken” things including feelings can often be mended with patience and care.

This story spoke to me on the power of patience and how kids and dogs can sometimes do naughty acts, but it’s not them actually being naughty. 

The Humble Pie
A humorous and empowering lesson in humility that shows why it’s always better to admit when you’re wrong than to keep swallowing your pride.

The food group series just keeps on getting better! I can’t wait to see what food is next, Pizza?

The Trouble with Giraffes
This story tackles physical differences and the importance of looking past height to find a true friend.

Clovis Meets His Match
An angry bull learns that a soft heart is much more powerful than a hard head when he meets a mirror image of his own temper.

This whole series is SO good. The end.

The Bear out There
A story for kids about intruders (thoughts, people….) told in a way that gives them understanding and not “scaries”.

Billie Jean Peet, Athlete
This inspiring look at sportsmanship emphasizes that being a true athlete is about character and perseverance just as much as skill.

The illustrations are so unique and Billie Jean Peet is just precious. 

History:

Bittersweet: Based on the True Tale of the Berlin Candy Bombers
This inspiring nonfiction picture book celebrates the true story of a compassionate airman who sparked a movement of hope by airdropping chocolate filled parachutes to children in occupied Berlin.

The secret cover is DELICIOUS!!!

Friendship/Family

The Day The Crayons Made Friends
Our favorite colorful characters return to show that the best masterpieces are created when we work together and appreciate everyone’s unique hue.

The Day the Crayons Made Friends was the 2025 Open The Magic Day book selection.

Kittybunkport
A whimsical tale of a seaside community that proves home is wherever your “feline” friends are. The play on words is just a hoot!

Carla and the Tin Can
A beautiful traditional story about little girls who play Dress Up and decide to have a tea party. During the planning something goes wrong! Can they fix it?

Warm and Fuzzy
A cozy celebration of the physical and emotional warmth provided by our closest family bonds.

Buffalo Fluffalo and Puffalo
What happens when Buffalo Fluffalo’s routine is interrupted by a new sibling? 

The Elevator on 74th Street
A vertical adventure that illustrates how a small, shared space can spark unexpected connections between neighbors.

School: 

Recess 
A high-energy tribute to the most important “subject” of the school day, highlighting the social skills and creativity learned on the playground.

Best Day Ever!
The cutest book depicting the life of a Monday. The illustrations are engaging and help tell the story. This is the first in the series. I can’t wait for Tuesday. 

If you would like a printable copy of this list that you can take to your library or screenshot on your phone for easy access, just pop in your email address here and it’ll come right to your inbox!

The post 25 Must-Read 2025 Picture Books to Open The Magic appeared first on Ramona Recommends.

Growing up with dyslexia and an auditory processing disorder, I didn’t always see rows of bookshelves as an invitation; sometimes, they felt like a challenge. However, once I discovered the transformative power of picture books, my world changed forever. Today, as a fifth-grade teacher and the founder of Ramona Recommends, I am constantly reminding my students and fellow educators that the most accessible place to “Open The Magic” is at your local public library. It isn’t just a building filled with quiet corners and dusty spines; it is a vibrant community hub where every reader can find their next big “Confetti Moment.”

A Treasure Trove of Diverse Stories

When we walk into a library, we are walking into a world of endless possibilities. For teachers and parents alike, the library offers a rotating selection of picture books that might otherwise be out of reach for a personal or classroom collection. I always say that picture books are my jam because they bridge the gap for readers of all abilities. By visiting your local public library, you can explore diverse authors, unique illustration styles, and stories that serve as both windows and mirrors for the children in your life.

More Than Just Books

If you haven’t visited lately, you might be surprised by what’s happening behind those doors. Modern libraries have evolved into dynamic centers for creativity and connection. Many offer:

1. Creative Makerspaces
   These are essentially innovation labs right in the heart of your community. Makerspaces often provide access to tools that might be out of reach for a single classroom or home, such as 3D printers, coding kits, sewing machines, or high-end art supplies. For a child who might struggle with traditional reading, finding a “Confetti Moment” while building a robot or designing a digital circuit can be the confidence boost they need to see themselves as a successful learner. It turns the library into a place of active doing rather than just quiet sitting.
2. Museum Passes
   One of the best-kept secrets of the local public library is the “Library of Things.” Many branches offer physical passes or digital vouchers that grant free or deeply discounted admission to local zoos, science centers, and art museums. This is an incredible resource for building experiences. It allows families to take the themes we read about in picture books and see them come to life in the real world, regardless of their budget.
3. Dynamic Reading Programs & Events
   Libraries are masters at turning literacy into a celebration. Beyond the classic summer reading challenge, look for “Winter Bingo,” guest author visits, or “Paws to Read” programs where children can practice reading to therapy dogs. These events are designed to “Open The Magic” for reluctant readers by removing the pressure of grades and replacing it with pure engagement. These programs often feature digital read-alouds and interactive storytimes that are perfect for auditory learners.
4. Curated Thematic “Book Bundles”
   Librarians are the ultimate curators! Many libraries now offer “Book Bundles” or “Binge Boxes” where they have already gathered 5–10 high-quality picture books on a specific theme—like “Winter Wonders” (perfect for pairing with a Blizzard unit!), “Social-Emotional Learning,” or “National Days.” This is a massive time-saver for busy teachers and parents. Instead of hunting through the stacks, you can grab a pre-made bundle that ensures your classroom or home library is always fresh, diverse, and ready for your next morning meeting. (Also look for their STEM kits! Same idea, but with something to build along with the theme.)
5. Specialized Literacy & Accessibility Tools
   For my fellow educators and parents supporting students with dyslexia or auditory processing disorders, the library is a goldmine of accessibility. Most libraries provide free access to apps like Libby or Sora, which offer audiobooks that students can listen to while following along with a physical copy. They also frequently stock “Decodable” book collections and e-readers that allow you to change the font to a “dyslexic-friendly” setting. These tools are essential for helping every child rise above their challenges and find the joy in a great story.

Courtney’s Bonus Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask your local librarian for a “Teacher Card!” Many libraries offer special accounts for educators that allow for longer checkout periods and higher item limits—because they know we can never have too many picture books in our classrooms!

Finding Your Confetti Moment

Because libraries allow children the freedom to choose their own books without the pressure of a price tag, they are the perfect environment for confetti moments to flourish. When a child chooses a book they are genuinely excited about, they aren’t just practicing literacy; they are building an identity as a reader.

If you’re looking for other ways to bundle books and curate a classroom book box, check out my blog about using National Days and our amazing digital National Days resource to get you started.

Whether you are looking for a new read-aloud for your classroom or a quiet place to rediscover your own love of stories, your neighborhood library is waiting. Grab your library card, head out the door, and get ready to Open The Magic!

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The air outside is getting crisp, and the classroom is buzzing with that specific December energy that only teachers understand. While we are busy wrapping up the semester, my heart always drifts toward home and the quiet moments we can carve out amidst the chaos. There is nothing quite like the glow of tree lights and the smell of old pages. This year, I want to invite you to slow down and create holiday book traditions that will stick with your children long after the wrapping paper is thrown away.

The Inspiration: A Flood of Books

Have you heard of the Icelandic tradition called Jolabokaflod? Roughly translated, it means “The Christmas Book Flood.” It originated during World War II when paper was one of the few commodities not rationed in Iceland. Families began exchanging books on Christmas Eve and spending the rest of the night reading in bed while drinking hot chocolate.

I recently read the picture book The Christmas Book Flood by Emily Kilgore, and it completely captured my imagination. The illustrations depict the sheer joy of hunting for the perfect story to share with someone you love. It reminded me that books aren’t just objects; they are vessels for connection. Adopting a version of this “flood” is a beautiful way to prioritize literacy and togetherness during the busy season.

Our Ramona Family’s Cozy Traditions

In the Frazier household, we have experienced a few lovely traditions that we hope to continue on. Growing up, one of my favorite traditions with my mom was how she saved our Holiday books each year. Picture those huge popcorn gift tins. She would clean that out really well to save them and put our books in each year. The tin would sit out and we could pick a book to enjoy throughout the season together.  To make it cozier, she would also buy us new pajamas. These memories bring me so much joy when I think about my mom, the holidays, and our family together. 

In New York, we have a teammate that chooses 24 winter or holiday-themed books. She wraps each one individually, and numbers them from 1 to 24. Each day in December, they unwrap one book and enjoy it together any time of day. This countdown invites calm, joy, and quality time during an otherwise busy season.

Down in Texas our teammate strives to associate this season not just with toys, but with the comfort of a good story, too. Every year, her two children receive new Christmas books. The new books are wrapped up with a brand-new pair of pajamas. There is something magical about putting on fresh jammies, cuddling up under a blanket, and cracking open a new picture book together to share. It creates an instant core memory where the world melts away, and it is just them and the story. They now have a full bin of winter books to bring out each year and they just love it!

Bringing the Book Flood to the Classroom

As teachers, we have the unique privilege of bringing this magic into our schools, ensuring every child feels that spark of ownership over a story. Check out these ideas I’ve done or seen done:

• 10 Day Book Countdown– Grab my free picture book countdown to add magic to your classroom this holiday season!
• Gifting a brand-new book to each student. (pro tip: I hoard my Scholastic bonus points all year long to make this happen without breaking the bank!)
• For a high-energy twist, try a Picture Book Exchange. Have your class sit in a circle holding wrapped books, and as you read a story or play a festive song, have them pass the books every time they hear a specific “trigger” word. It is chaotic joy and I have just the freebie for you to give it a try! 
• Consider asking friends and family to “adopt a student” by sending in a book; it is a beautiful way to ensure the warmth of the season reaches every single desk. 

What Are Your Traditions?

At Ramona Recommends, we believe that community is built through shared stories. We are currently collecting favorite traditions from our amazing community of teachers and parents. Do you wrap 24 books and unwrap one each night like an advent calendar? Do you have a special breakfast where you read aloud?

We want to feature YOU! Please comment below or send us a DM on Instagram sharing your family’s favorite bookish holiday tradition. 

Open the Magic This December

Whether you adopt the full Icelandic Book Flood or simply commit to reading one extra bedtime story this week, you are doing the important work of building a love for reading. Let’s make this December a time of connection, quiet, and a little bit of magic.

The post Creating Magic With Holiday Book Traditions For Families appeared first on Ramona Recommends.

Is there anything more chaotic yet wonderful than an elementary school in December? Between the glitter on the floor and the anticipation in the air, keeping students engaged can be a challenge. However, this is exactly when I love to Open the Magic. There is a unique stillness that settles over a room when you find the perfect story. If you are looking for impactful Christmas picture books for the classroom, you have come to the right place.

Picture books are my jam because they build community and create those unforgettable Confetti Moments—when a student truly connects with a story. Whether you are looking to teach specific reading standards or simply want to warm hearts, these five selections are absolute must-reads for your December lesson plans.

Red and Lulu by Matt Tavares

If you love stunning illustrations and a tug at the heartstrings, Red and Lulu is a non-negotiable addition to your library. This story follows a pair of cardinals who are separated when their favorite tree is cut down and moved to New York City. The journey to find one another is breathtaking. I use this book to discuss perspective and the power of home. Plus, the fold-out spread of the tree in the city is a guaranteed “ooh and aah” moment!

The Carpenter’s Gift by David Rubel

First on the list is a touching historical fiction piece that pairs beautifully with a history lesson on the Great Depression. The Carpenter’s Gift tells the origin story of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Through the eyes of young Henry, we see a story of kindness, poverty, and the ripple effect of generosity. It is not just a holiday book; it is a lesson in citizenship and gratitude that will leave your upper-grade students thinking deeply about the true meaning of “gift.”

Elmore the Christmas Moose by Dev Petty and M. Boldt

Sometimes, you just need to laugh. Elmore the Christmas Moose delivers humor in spades. Elmore really, really wants to be one of Santa’s reindeer, but he is, well, a moose. It is a hilarious story about recognizing your own unique strengths and finding where you fit in. If your class needs a brain break that doubles as a lesson on self-acceptance, Elmore is your guy.

Too Many Tamales by Gary Soto

Transitioning from the city to the warmth of family tradition, we have the classic Too Many Tamales. The panic Maria feels when she realizes her mother’s diamond ring might be inside one of the tamales is something every student can relate to! It is funny, chaotic, and full of love. This text is a perfect springboard for discussing diverse holiday food traditions—perhaps even pairing it with The Lucky Grapes for a compare and contrast activity.

Little Red Sleigh by Erin Guendelsberger

Finally, we have a story about believing in the impossible. Much like The Little Engine That Could, the Little Red Sleigh has big dreams of becoming Santa’s sleigh. Despite being told she is too small, too slow, and “just a toy,” she sets out to prove everyone wrong. This is a wonderful growth mindset mentor text to wrap up the year, reminding students that their size or age doesn’t limit their potential.The World Needs YOU to Share Stories Navigating the holidays in the classroom can be tricky, but books bridge the gap. By using these Christmas picture books for the classroom, you aren’t just reading aloud; you are building memories. Which one will you read first?

The World Needs YOU to Share Stories

Navigating the holidays in the classroom can be tricky, but books bridge the gap. By using these Christmas picture books for the classroom, you aren’t just reading aloud; you are building memories. Which one will you read first?

Need more ready to use ideas for ELAR stations this month? Check out this FUN and Print Ready resource! And, naturally, I have these recommendations for you to extend the winter reading, too!

The post Magical Christmas Picture Books for the Classroom You Need appeared first on Ramona Recommends.

Celebrating Family, Food, and Traditions Through Story

In every classroom, students bring treasured customs from home—recipes passed down, special celebrations, and the stories that give their families identity. Diverse picture books about family gatherings help us honor those traditions while fostering connection and empathy. These stories also spark joyful conversations, especially during the fall and winter months when so many holidays bring people together. 

As you plan for November and December, consider weaving in books that spotlight food, culture, love, and community.

Below, you’ll find a collection of beautifully rich titles that celebrate family traditions in ways both tender and delightful. Each one offers opportunities for discussion, writing, SEL conversations, and cross-curricular learning.

Carla and the Tin Can Cake Party

This energetic and heartfelt story by Carla Hall and America’s Test Kitchen celebrates creativity, resourcefulness, and family connection. When Carla and her team decide to bake a cake using what they have, readers see how food becomes a joyful bridge between generations. Young chefs will relate to the excitement of mixing, measuring, and making something delicious together. Additionally, this book can anchor conversations about gratitude, community helpers, and how traditions begin.

Too Many Tamales

A classic story by Gary Soto that is filled with warmth, suspense, and holiday flavor. As Maria helps prepare tamales for Christmas dinner, one small mistake turns into a memorable (and hilarious) family adventure. Gary Soto beautifully captures family dynamics—cousins whispering, grown-ups cooking, and the joyful chaos that often comes with large gatherings. This book pairs beautifully with lessons on problem-solving, responsibility, and character reactions.

The Lucky Grapes: A New Year’s Eve Story

Transitioning into the new year becomes a magical experience through the Spanish tradition of las doce uvas—eating twelve grapes for good luck. This enchanting picture book highlights one family’s celebration full of music, food, relatives, and hope. Students will love learning about a tradition that might be new to them, making it an excellent springboard for discussing their own family rituals. To help you bring this lesson to life without the prep work, I’ve created a free resource to go perfectly with this book.

Peyton Picks the Perfect Pie

Food traditions look different in every family, and Peyton’s story shows students that it’s okay to be particular about what we like—or don’t like. While Peyton tries to find the perfect pie for Thanksgiving dinner, she also discovers the importance of trying new things, being honest with the people she loves, and celebrating what makes us unique. Thank you Jack Bishop for a great book all wrapped up in a neat little packacge!

If you’re looking to elevate this read-aloud with meaningful ELA practice, my Peyton Picks the Perfect Pie Companion Resource is ready to use and packed with thoughtful learning experiences.

This resource helps students connect deeply to the text while strengthening their literacy skills in engaging and meaningful ways.

Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story

This award-winning picture book by Kevin Noble honors Native American identity through the lens of family and food. With lyrical text and emotionally rich illustrations, Fry Bread explores how a simple dish can symbolize tradition, survival, and community. It’s an essential book for every classroom, especially when discussing culture, history, and the stories that unite families.

Bringing It All Together: Why These Books Matter

Even though every family celebrates differently, these books remind students that food, stories, and gathering together hold universal meaning. They help children feel seen, honoring traditions from around the world while cultivating understanding among classmates. Moreover, these texts can spark writing, inspire SEL conversations, and build a rich sense of community during a busy, joyful season.

The post Books That Bring Family Traditions to Life appeared first on Ramona Recommends.

Story Elements Come Alive

Every strong comprehension lesson starts with the basics—story elements. In A Bad Case of Stripes, students can clearly identify the characters, setting, problem, and solution while noticing how these pieces work together to create a meaningful story.

Start by reading the book aloud and discussing each element as you go. Ask questions like:

• Who is the main character, and what does she want?
• What problem does she face?
• How is that problem finally solved?

Try this: Use my free story elements printable to help students organize their thoughts as they listen. They can fill in boxes, draw illustrations, and color each section in Camilla’s vibrant hues. When finished, you’ll have a visual map of the story—and a hallway display that truly pops with color!

Character Change and Growth

Camilla Cream is more than just a girl who breaks out in stripes—she’s a character who changes from uncertain to unapologetically herself. This makes her story perfect for exploring character change and personal growth.

Ask guiding questions to get students thinking deeply:

• What caused Camilla’s stripes to appear?
• How did she feel about herself at the beginning of the story?
• What changes by the end?

Writing Connection: Have students create a short reflection called My Own Case of Stripes. Encourage them to describe a time they felt pressure to fit in—and what they learned about being themselves. This personal writing moment helps connect literature to life, making comprehension more meaningful.

Theme: Be True to You

Every memorable story has a heartbeat—and in this one, it’s all about self-acceptance. Teaching theme through A Bad Case of Stripes encourages students to think beyond the events and ask why the story matters.

Pose open-ended questions such as:

• What is the author trying to teach us about being ourselves?
• How does Camilla’s journey show that lesson?

Group Challenge: Divide your class into small groups and ask them to find three pieces of text evidence that reveal the story’s theme. You’ll love hearing how their interpretations differ—and how their confidence grows when they can justify their thinking with evidence from the text.

Making Connections and Inferring Feelings

David Shannon’s bold illustrations do more than decorate—they communicate. Each color, pattern, and facial expression reveals how Camilla feels inside. This makes the book a powerful tool for practicing making inferences.

Give students sentence stems such as:

• “Camilla felt ____ when ____.”
• “The author shows Camilla’s emotions through ____.”

Then, discuss how her appearance changes alongside her emotions. For example, what do her rainbow stripes say about her feelings? How does she look different when she finally eats the lima beans again? These visual clues guide students to connect emotion with action—a key skill in understanding character motivation.

Creative Classroom Extensions

Make your comprehension lesson even more colorful with activities that combine art, writing, and self-expression:

🎨 Art Connection: Invite students to design their own “stripes” using patterns or colors that represent their personalities and interests. Display them with a banner titled Be True to You!

🧠 SEL Tie-In: Create a class book called A Bad Case of Being Me, where each student adds a page about something that makes them unique. It’s a beautiful reminder that our quirks are what make us shine.

📖 Vocabulary Practice: Highlight words like unique, authentic, and identity from the story. Use them for context clue practice or add them to your class word wall.

Turning Stripes into Strengths

A Bad Case of Stripes is more than a read-aloud—it’s an invitation to celebrate individuality. By weaving comprehension skills with lessons about self-acceptance, you’ll create a classroom where students feel seen, valued, and empowered to show their true colors.

Before you go, don’t forget to download your free story elements printable! It’s the perfect tool to help students analyze the book while keeping the fun and color of Camilla Cream’s world alive.So go ahead—bring A Bad Case of Stripes into your classroom, and watch as your students turn their stripes into strengths.

The post Colorful Comprehension Magic: Teaching with A Bad Case of Stripes appeared first on Ramona Recommends.

Why Use Halloween Books in the Classroom?

Halloween is more than costumes and candy—it’s an invitation to spark imagination. Using themed picture books builds excitement while offering opportunities to teach comprehension, vocabulary, and writing skills. Plus, seasonal stories help strengthen classroom community as students share in the joy of the season together.

The October Book List

Here are a few picture books that add just the right amount of spooky fun without being too scary for your students:

• Poultrygeist by Erin Geron – A laugh-out-loud story about a ghostly chicken that turns “scary” into silly.
• Bonaparte Falls Apart by Margery Cuyler and Will Terry – Perfect for teaching themes of resilience and friendship, all wrapped in a Halloween vibe.
• How to Make Friends with a Ghost by Rebecca Green – Sweet, whimsical, and perfect for upper elementary students who enjoy slightly longer, thoughtful reads.

Featured Favorite: I Need My Monster

Amanda Noll’s I Need My Monster is a classroom classic. The playful premise of a boy needing his own monster creates endless opportunities for discussions about fear, creativity, and bravery. To make this even easier for you, I’ve created a full print-and-go book companion with activities designed to target comprehension, writing, and vocabulary—all through the lens of this beloved story. Read more about it HERE!

Pair any of these titles with group discussions, quick writes, or your October literacy centers.

Extend the Fun with Halloween Literacy Activities

To go along with these books, my new Halloween resource is full of print-and-go activities to make your planning effortless. (COMING SOON!)

Inside you’ll find:

• Mad Lib–style creations for building parts of speech skills
• Synonyms and antonyms worksheets
  A themed word search
• A writing prompt choice board
• Differentiated nonfiction and fiction reading passages with comprehension questions and graphic organizers
• Lined writing paper for polished student responses
  

These activities are perfect for small groups, literacy centers, or whole-class fun. They allow you to celebrate the season while still meeting important standards. Until then, feel free to check out more October reads HERE!

Wrapping It All Together

Halloween in the classroom should be both fun and meaningful. With the right picture books and ready-to-use literacy activities, you can create lessons your students will never forget. Whether you choose to giggle with Poultrygeist, cheer for Bonaparte, or shiver at I Need My Monster, these titles paired with engaging resources will help your classroom celebrate October with style and substance.

The post Spooky Fun Halloween Books for the Elementary Classroom appeared first on Ramona Recommends.

There’s something magical about a themed celebration. In the classroom, National Day read alouds are more than just a fun extra—they’re a way to spark curiosity, make students feel seen, and connect literature to the world around them.

Teachers already juggle so much. Planning a month of special read alouds? That can feel like one more thing—unless you have a ready-to-go list for the whole year. That’s why I created this free 12-month National Day list—so you can sprinkle joy into your day without spending hours hunting for ideas.

Why National Days Work in the Classroom

From National Ice Cream Day to World Kindness Day, these themed moments give students something to look forward to. They:

• Build excitement and anticipation in your classroom routine.
• Connect literature to real-world events in a meaningful way.
• Give students a reason to talk, laugh, and share with one another.

The best part? You don’t need to buy anything fancy or plan an elaborate event. Just choose a picture book from the list, share it with your students, and let the conversation unfold.

What’s Inside the Freebie

This isn’t just a list—it’s a year of possibilities. Your free download includes:

• 📅 12 full months of themed National Days with a few specific read aloud recommendations.
• 📜 A welcome letter to inspire and guide you.
• 📚 Books chosen with elementary-aged kids in mind—perfect for PK–6th grade.

Whether you’re leading a morning meeting, filling that tricky transition time, or just looking for a little classroom magic, you’ll have everything you need in one place.

How to Use It All Year Long

September might bring Read a Book Day and International Dot Day, while February offers World Read Aloud Day and Random Acts of Kindness Day. Every month, there’s something new to explore.

Here are a few simple ways to bring National Day read alouds to life:

• Pair the book with a short writing prompt.
• Invite students to share their own connections to the day’s theme.
• Use it as a springboard for a mini art or STEM project.

Small moments can leave big imprints. A five-minute celebration might just become the part of the day your students never forget.

Ready to Bring the Joy?

If you’ve been loving my August Interactive Read Aloud Calendar, this freebie is the perfect next step. It gives you the whole year’s worth of themed celebrations—without the planning stress.

Grab your Free 12-Month National Day List today and bring a little extra joy, connection, and curiosity into your classroom—one day at a time.

The post Bring Joy to Your Classroom with National Day Read Alouds appeared first on Ramona Recommends.