The transition into upper elementary is a pivotal moment for young readers. It is a time when the “learning to read” phase shifts into “reading to learn,” yet for many students, this leap feels like staring across a vast canyon. As a 5th-grade teacher and someone who navigated education with dyslexia, I have seen firsthand how the right medium can build a bridge across that gap.

Graphic novels for elementary learners are not just a trend; they are a sophisticated literacy tool that fosters confidence, comprehension, and a lifelong love of stories.

I recently chatted with Aimee Smith, the brilliant mind behind @keepabookout, to discuss her philosophy on keeping books accessible and why we need to champion visual storytelling.

Building Confidence for Every Reader

For a child with dyslexia, a page of dense text can be overwhelming. Graphic novels offer visual scaffolding that allows them to decode complex narratives without the exhaustion of heavy word-count processing. This builds a sense of mastery. Aimee has seen this sense of pride firsthand within her own home.

Q. At Ramona Recommends, we believe picture books have a universal impact. What was the “spark” book from your own childhood or early motherhood that made you realize books needed to be at the center of your home?
A. It’s interesting. I was raised in a home where books were everywhere. My parents were always reading and they always read to us. But the feeling that really sticks out in my memory was when my mom would bring out the Christmas picture books. Like, The Polar Express, etc. those books are SO nostalgic to me. Like a giant hug.

Q. Your brand name, “Keep a Book Out,” is such a powerful visual. To me, it’s the first step to “Opening the Magic.” Can you tell our readers what that philosophy means to you personally?
A. I think sometimes we overthink things. As parents or educators we want our kids to love reading so we read and we curate collections and we research… but something as simple as keeping books out and accessible can have such a huge impact. Kids are curious. The more the see and can access, the more they will! Keep books out! Keep trying. It will happen.

Creating “Confetti Moments” for Reluctant Readers

When we talk about reluctant readers, we are often talking about children who haven’t yet found a story that moves at their pace. Graphic novels provide high-interest, fast-moving plots that keep readers engaged. Aimee shared a beautiful story about how this medium can even bridge the gap between siblings.

Q. I define a “Confetti Moment” as that special second when a child or adult connects deeply with a story. In your work curating books for your own family, what is a specific “Confetti Moment” you’ve witnessed or experienced recently?
A. My youngest is in first grade and in the last year or so reading independently has really clicked with him. But, one day, his 14 year old brother was reading a graphic novel and passed it to him when he was finished… the way his eyes lit up when he realized he could read the same stories as his older brother was PRICELESS. The pride and sense of accomplishment he felt was written all over his face. It was pure magic.

Q. As a 5th-grade teacher, I see how picture books build community in the classroom. How do you think “keeping books out” and visible in the home helps build that same sense of community and connection within a family?
A. Books have such a special way of helping kids feel connected to the world outside and inside of their home. Discovering someone else’s point of view or seeing your own views reflected is so empowering. I think reading just helps you make sense of the world around you.

Low-Stakes Text, High-Level Comprehension

One common misconception is that graphic novels are “too easy.” On the contrary, they require readers to synthesize text and images simultaneously, a skill called multimodal literacy. This allows students to practice deep comprehension—inferring character emotion from a facial expression or understanding tone through color palette—in a low-stakes environment.

Q. You have such a gift for finding unique and beautiful titles. When you are looking for a new book to recommend, what are the “must-have” elements you look for? (Is it the illustrations, the message, or the “grab-and-go” factor?)
A. I firmly believe you should judge books by their cover. Especially a picture book. Covers have a job to do and that is to entice a reader to pick it up! After that I really try to view the book through the eyes of a child. It can have an amazing message but without an engaging story that message will be lost because kids will stop reading. It has to have kid appeal!

Q. Many of my followers are teachers looking to bridge the gap between school and home. What is one piece of advice you’d give a teacher who wants to encourage parents to “keep a book out” during those busy weekday evenings?
A. We have all become hardwired to pull out our phones at any given moment, but if you can pull out a phone… you can pull out a book! Keep one in the car. Keep one in your bag. They can read while they ride, or while they wait, no need to make it feel like an EXTRA thing to do, you can make it a part of what you are already doing.

The Power of Graphic Novels for Elementary Learners

While some adults may still view these books as “dessert,” Aimee and I agree that they are a vital part of the main course. Beyond consumption, the graphic novel format allows students to apply their skills. In my classroom, I love giving students the opportunity to create their own frames, applying sequencing and dialogue skills in a way that feels like play but acts like rigorous learning.

Q. Aimee, you are a fierce advocate for graphic novels as a true and essential genre. As someone who navigated my own education with dyslexia, I know how vital visual storytelling is for building confidence and comprehension. For the parents or teachers who might still see graphic novels as “dessert” rather than the “main course,” how do you explain their power in building true literacy?
A. Who doesn’t want more dessert? I’m laughing, but seriously, if we want kids to want more reading… give them the dessert! I always encourage parents to look up the science. Studies show how beneficial graphic novels are- especially for building new vocabulary. Why wouldn’t we want our kids to have the benefits graphic novels offer be part of their reading story? This might sound out there too, but I always encourage teachers and parents to try reading some for their own enjoyment. I have several I love to recommend. Most of the time they are pretty surprised by just how powerful they can be at telling stories.

Q. We are all about “Opening the Magic” here, and often graphic novels are the very thing that turns a reluctant reader into a book lover. In the spirit of “Keeping a Book Out,” what is your best advice for displaying or introducing graphic novels so that children (and adults!) see them as a valid, celebrated, and “magical” way to read?
A. Just make them available! Keep them around. Put them in high traffic areas. Let them drag them with them anywhere they go. One of my favorite things about graphic novels is how easy they are to pick up and start reading. Our most popular spot for reading graphic novels at our house is the kitchen table. The read the while they eat breakfast, while they have snack, there is always one laying around.

Part 5: The Rapid-Fire “Magic” Round

Q. If you could only “keep one book out” on your coffee table for the rest of the month, which one would it be?
A.The Old Truck by Jarrett and Jerome Pumphrey always and forever.

Q. What is your favorite “hidden gem” picture book that you think every classroom library needs?
A. After The Fall by Dan Santat

Q. We love a good theme! Since we’re thinking about February- Black History Month and Valentine’s Day, what is one book that perfectly captures the “magic” of this season?
A. This feels impossible! There are so many! Today…. The Oldest Student by Rita Lorraine Hubbard and Oge Mora or The Last Stand by Antwan Eady

Closing the Book

Whether you are a parent or a teacher, the goal is the same: to foster a environment where reading is accessible, celebrated, and constant. By embracing graphic novels, we aren’t just giving kids “easier” books; we are giving them the keys to a kingdom they might have otherwise felt locked out of.

The post Unlock Hidden Magic: Graphic Novels for Elementary Learners 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.

When you bring in picture books, vocabulary suddenly becomes vibrant, visual, and downright FUN!

Picture books naturally expose students to rich language, figurative phrases, context clues, and juicy tier-two words. One of my favorite seasonal titles for this is Peyton Picks the Perfect Pie by Jack Bishop. It’s filled with personality, word choice that pops, and tons of moments to pause and say: “Ooooh, that’s a great vocabulary word!”

So grab your read-aloud voice and a stack of picture books! Here are three engaging ways to boost vocabulary using picture books.

1. Use Pictures & Context Clues Like Detectives

Picture books make context clues click because students can pair illustrations with strong textual clues. Before reading, choose a few “mystery words” from the story and have students predict their meanings using only the pictures. Then, read aloud and let them revise or confirm their thinking using context clues from the sentences.

In Peyton Picks the Perfect Pie, students can use illustrations and text together to uncover fun words like delighted, flustered, or celebration, based on what Peyton is doing, feeling, and tasting on her pie quest.

This turns vocabulary into a detective mission and upper elementary students LOVE a role with a little mystery.

2. Build Mini Text Sets Around Vocabulary Themes

Rather than teaching a word once and moving on, try pairing books in text sets: groups of 3–5 books connected by a topic, theme, or repeated vocabulary idea. The repeated exposure is where the vocabulary magic happens!

Use Peyton Picks the Perfect Pie in a food, fall, or family celebration text set and look for recurring tier-two words such as: gather, celebrate, create, and attempt.

When students see these words appear across multiple texts, they begin to internalize meaning and actually apply the vocabulary in conversation and writing.

Other ideas for fall could come from one of these Halloween Book posts:

3. Grow a “Wow Words” Routine and Word Wall

During your read-aloud, pause for “Wow Words,” These words are interesting, descriptive, or powerful tier-two words that deserve a spotlight. After reading, choose 3–5 “Wow Words” to explore together.

With Peyton Picks the Perfect Pie, students might act out a word, sketch a visual, add it to a class word wall, or use it in their own pie-themed sentences.

Why This Works

Picture books build vocabulary because they:

 ✨ Provide meaningful context
✨ Pair new words with visuals and emotion
✨ Allow students to hear and see words repeatedly
✨ Invite discussion, connection, and creativity

Upper elementary students are not too old for picture books. In fact, this age is where they become even more powerful as mentor texts.

Grab my Peyton’s Picture Perfect Pie resource. If you’re on the hunt for more titles that make vocabulary pop, check out this curated list of picture books that are perfect for vocabulary instruction!

Looking for more picture books that enhance literary skills? Read about teaching theme here!

The post How to Teach Vocabulary with Picture Books appeared first on Ramona Recommends.

Reading isn’t just about decoding words. It is so much more. It is about understanding, questioning, and interacting with the text. That’s where annotation comes in! Annotation is simply “talking with the text” by marking important words, jotting down thoughts, and asking questions as students read. When kids actively engage with what they’re reading, their comprehension soars. Plus, teaching annotation at an early age sets students up for success as they tackle more complex texts in the future.

Why Teach Annotation?

Annotation helps students slow down and think critically about what they read. Instead of skimming over words, they start making connections, identifying key details, and summarizing ideas.

When students underline main ideas, circle unknown words, or jot down quick thoughts in the margins, they become active participants in their reading journey.

It’s like having a conversation with the text. The best type of convo one that deepens understanding and improves retention.

How to Introduce Annotation in the Elementary Classroom

Step 1: Before annotating have a verbal conversation with a student. Have the students notice how a verbal conversation has many interruptions.

Step 2: Now link that conversation to annotating a text. Make the comparison of talking and annotation as a way to “talk with the text.” Just like they’d respond to a friend’s story, students can react to a passage by marking important details, exciting facts, or confusing parts.

Step 3: Pair the symbols with guided practice to show how to interact with the text effectively. Using symbols (like a star for important ideas or a question mark for things that make them wonder more) makes the process fun and engaging.

Make Annotation Engaging with The Inside Scoop! 🍦

Looking for the perfect way to introduce annotation? The Inside Scoop is a ready-to-use resource featuring high-interest reading passages all about ice cream! Students will love marking up fun facts while learning how to engage with a text. Plus, the included annotation posters provide visual support, reinforcing key strategies as students build their skills.

Annotation turns reading into a conversation and that’s where real learning happens! Try it with your students and watch their comprehension and confidence grow.

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.

The post Unlock Deeper Thinking: Teach Kids to Read and Annotate with Confidence…and Ice Cream! appeared first on Ramona Recommends.