Book Series · 8 Books

Jitters Books

In order from First Day Jitters to Teacher Jitters.

Mrs. Hartwell and her class face familiar school worries with humor, preparation, and the reassurance that children and adults both get nervous.

Reviewed by the Bookroo Editors Updated

First Day Jitters
Last Day Blues
Big Test Jitters
School Year Jitters
Valentine's Day Jitters
Reading order

How to Read the Jitters Books

The nine stories are shown in publication order, but each centers on a different school event and works on its own. Start with First Day Jitters for the series' signature surprise, then choose the situation closest to what your child is anticipating.

Sources: Charlesbridge Jitters series.

For parents

What Parents Should Know

These stories name common worries about school, tests, photographs, illness, visitors, and new routines without making the anxiety feel overwhelming. Supportive classmates and teachers model practical coping and show that nervous feelings are normal.

First Day Jitters depends on a gentle identity surprise, so avoiding spoilers preserves the fun. There is no meaningful violence or frightening content.

Where the story begins

First Book in the Series

First Day Jitters
Sale price
$1697
Book #1 · Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2000

First Day Jitters

By Julie Danneberg, Judy Love (Illustrator)

A young girl struggles to adjust to a new school.

32 pages· 408 words· Est. 4 min read-aloud
4.0/7 Bookroo
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Sarah Jane Hartwell dreads her first day at a new school, convinced it will be terrible. With a nudge from Mr. Hartwell, she reluctantly goes, only to find unexpected friendship and a surprising twist in her classroom. Will Sarah's fears be unfounded, and what surprise awaits her? This charming tale reassures young students that everyone feels jitters sometimes, making it a perfect read for those anxious about starting school.
In reading order

Jitters Series

8 books · Published 2000–2025

#2
Sale price
$799

Last Day Blues

Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2006

Students plan a surprise to cheer up their teacher before summer break.

#3
Sale price
$799

Big Test Jitters

Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2020

Students face test anxiety; can they learn to relax and succeed?

#4
Sale price
$759

School Year Jitters

Picture Book · Ages 6–9 · 2021

A teacher navigates a year of unpredictable second graders through heartfelt letters.

#5
Sale price
$1699

Valentine's Day Jitters

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2021

A teacher's perfect Valentine's party spirals into chaos. Will her students still feel the love?

#7
Sale price
$1697

Sick Day Jitters

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2023

Chaos ensues when Mrs. Hartwell is out sick and no substitute arrives.

Sale price
$1697

Teacher Jitters

Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2025

A teacher faces her own jitters before attending a class.

Good to know

Common Questions

How many books are in the Jitters series?

There are 8 books in the Jitters series. It began with First Day Jitters in 2000, and the newest book, Teacher Jitters, was published in 2025.

What order should you read the Jitters books in?

Start with First Day Jitters and follow the series order — the books above are numbered #1 through #8.

What ages are the Jitters books best for?

The series is best for ages 4–9, based on the age ranges of the individual books.

The people

The Creatives Behind the Books

The people who bring Jitters to life.

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