Back to School Reads for Everyone

The days are getting shorter and summer is winding to a close, which means back-to-school season is upon us.

Some students in the US have already returned to classes, and Canada is close behind, with parents and students across the country heading out to buy new gym shoes and notebooks and 12-packs of pencils that will all have disappeared by Christmas.

One thing we think everyone should add to their back-to-school shopping list is books, and we have recommendations for every age group from pre-school to high school.

Here are our top picks for back-to-school reading.

For pre-schoolers:

My First 1000 Words
This colourful picture book is filled with everyday words, making it an excellent resource for language learning.

I Promise I’ll Find You
Help quell separation anxiety with this reassuring picture book about a parent crossing the earth to find her child.

I Spy 123
Help young children develop their observation skills and improve their communication as they learn to describe what they see.

For elementary school students:

I Want to Be series
This series introduces kids to a range of careers from the typical “when I grow up” professions of doctor and teacher to the unique vocations of farmer, chef, pilot, or librarian.

We Travel So Far
One of few picture books that discuss the impressive migrations undertaken by birds, fish, mammals, and humans every year, We Travel So Far is both eye-catching and educational.

Shakespeare Can Be Fun series
An accessible and interactive introduction to the greatest writer in the English language. Perfect for staging at home or in the classroom.

For middle school students:

Escape From Syria
This story of survival and hope narrated by 13-year-old Syrian refugee Amina is a thoughtful introduction for young readers to themes of war, displacement, and racism.

Flawed
Part graphic novel, part reflective memoir, this playful book discusses the struggles of coming into your own and discovering the power of self-acceptance and body positivity.

Firefly Wildlife Atlas
This comprehensive guide to the world’s animals and habitats is both a valuable resource for science class and an encyclopedia of stunning animal art.

For high school students:

500 Words You Should Know
Add some colour to your English essays and college applications with the myriad of extravagant, erudite words inside this playful dictionary.

The Math Behind
We can’t all be mathletes, but this unique reference book applies mathematical concepts to everyday subjects — like the odds of winning the lottery — making it a winner for every student.

The Infographic History of the World
From medieval crusades to modern money, this encyclopedia for modern times outlines the last 13.8 billion years in more than 100 eye-catching infographics.

For college students:

Clueless in the Kitchen
No one wants to eat macaroni and cheese from a box every day. Master the art of cooking with a book designed especially for the inexperienced cook.

The Ultimate Student Cookbook
Did we mention that mac and cheese every day gets old? This cookbook for beginners features recipes for all your favourite comfort foods on a budget.

GQ How to Win at Life
From cooking the perfect steak to acing a job interview, this guide to success compiles expert advice from Jamie Oliver, Richard Branson, Tracey Emin, and more.

For parents:

Lunch Box Letters
Life can be busy once school starts up again, and notes in your little one’s lunch box are a fun way to share encouragement, appointment reminders, or just to say hello.

Meet the Teacher
The perfect book for parents of elementary school-aged children. Written by two veteran teachers who are also parents, this is a great resource for helping your kids thrive at school.

The Little Book of Stress Relief
Nobody said back-to-school season was easy. Help manage your stress with helpful and inspiring advice from the leading expert on stress management.

Get the books:

My First 1000 Words