Spring is right around the corner! After months of snow and frigid temperatures here in the Midwest, I’m more than ready for the warmer days ahead. If you’ve read any of my other blog posts on thematic read-alouds, you know how much I value them – especially since many districts no longer prioritize thematic learning, instead requiring strict adherence to curriculum and pacing guides.
While you may not have time for a full thematic unit, there’s always time for a read-aloud! Today, I’m sharing nine books you can enjoy with your class to welcome the arrival of spring. As a reminder, I am not an Amazon affiliate and do not earn a commission if you purchase from the links provided. Before buying, I recommend checking your school and local libraries to see if these books are available to you for free.
Perfect for: Kindergarten – 5th Grade
This beautifully written book captures the anticipation of spring. A boy and his dog anxiously await the season’s arrival and decide to plant a garden. However, the wait for brown to disappear and green to return feels endless.
I know I listed a wide age range for this book, but it’s short enough to hold the attention of younger students while also serving as a valuable writing model for older students. Primary teachers may use this book as a simple read-aloud followed by a discussion on what students look forward to in spring. Intermediate teachers can use it as a mentor text, inspiring students to write about waiting and anticipation for something special in their own lives.
Perfect for: Kindergarten – 2nd Grade
This book tells the story of Rabbit, who is sad to see winter go, while his friends Bear, Mouse, and Bird are excited for all the wonderful things spring brings. As Rabbit shares what he will miss about winter, his friends gently challenge his perspective by reminding him of the joys the new season brings.
Perfect for: Kindergarten – 2nd Grade
This book explores both the visible and hidden activities happening in a garden throughout the seasons. Students will learn about the essential roles that even the tiniest creatures play in a garden’s success. The story highlights events happening above and below ground as plants grow and mature through spring, summer, and early fall before resting again in winter.
Perfect for: Kindergarten – 2nd Grade
Another wonderful book about the transition from winter to spring, this story describes the gradual changes in nature and the beauty that comes with the new season. It’s a great read-aloud for helping young students notice and appreciate seasonal changes.
Perfect for: 3rd – 5th Grade
This unique nonfiction book uses personification to describe seeds in a poetic and engaging way. Each page makes a statement about seeds, followed by factual explanations. It’s a fantastic resource for teaching students how to blend narrative and informational writing styles, and the illustrations are absolutely stunning.
Perfect for: Kindergarten – 5th Grade
This book illustrates the well-known saying about March’s unpredictable weather, depicting March as a fierce lion that eventually softens into a gentle lamb. Younger students will enjoy the story, while older students can use it as a mentor text for incorporating personification into their writing.
Perfect for: Kindergarten – 2nd Grade
Fletcher the Fox is thrilled about spring, until he spots something unexpected: snow! Worried, he rushes to warn his friends, only to discover that spring has a surprise in store. This charming book celebrates the beauty of springtime and the friendships that make seasonal changes even more special.
Perfect for: All Ages
This beautifully illustrated book takes readers on a journey with a boy and his dog as they explore nature, greeting the signs of the changing season. The poetic writing encourages young students to reflect on winter’s departure while serving as an inspiration for older students to add depth and creativity to their own writing.
Perfect for: Kindergarten – 2nd Grade
In this heartwarming story, Mole wakes up and smells spring in the air, but his friend Bear is still hibernating! Mole tries everything to wake Bear so they can enjoy the new season together. Young students will love this sweet tale about friendship and the excitement of spring’s arrival.
Do you have a favorite spring read-aloud? Drop the title in the comments below, I’d love to hear your recommendations!
