Books About Graduation

The Best Graduation Books for Kids

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Explore our editor-reviewed guide to School, featuring 15 favorites and recommendations by age.

Looking for excellent children's books about graduation? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Graduation

Sale price

$1697

Chapter Book · Ages 12–18 · 2013

The Testing

By Joelle Charbonneau · Book #1 in the The Testing series

Survive the deadly Testing or lose everything in a dystopian future.

325 pages· 95,038 words· Est. 9 hour read

4.0/5 Goodreads · 85,510 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Sixteen-year-old Cia Vale dreams of being chosen for The Testing, a prestigious program selecting future leaders in a post-war world. But when she's selected, her father's haunting warnings reveal a darker reality. As Cia leaves her home for Tosu City, she must navigate a treacherous path filled with danger and deception. Can she trust anyone, or will her quest for leadership become a fight for survival? With her future and life on the line, Cia faces a chilling test that could change everything. Will she emerge victorious, or will the Testing claim another victim?

Sale price

$958

Picture Book · Ages 3–7 · 2016

The Tale of You

By Beatrix Potter · Peter Rabbit series

Peter Rabbit ventures into the world, facing challenges and finding his way home.

48 pages

6.0/7 Bookroo·3.8/5 Goodreads · 37 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Hardcover

Summary: Peter Rabbit embarks on a journey into the vast world, encountering triumphs, setbacks, friends, and foes. As he navigates hopes and fears, he discovers the true meaning of home and family. Will his adventures lead him back to the warmth of familiar stories, or will the world change him forever? With rhythmic rhymes and charming illustrations, this tale captures the essence of life's journey and the comfort of returning home. Dive into Peter's world and explore the adventures that await beyond the garden gate.

Sale price

$1597

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2009

A Balloon for Isabel

By Deborah Underwood, Laura Rankin (Illustrator)

Isabel defies rules to get a forbidden balloon on Graduation Day.

32 pages· 572 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud

5.8/7 Bookroo·4.2/5 Goodreads · 507 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Isabel dreams of having a balloon on Graduation Day, but porcupines like her are banned from getting one. Determined not to settle for a dull bookmark, she hatches a daring plan. Will Isabel's quest for a balloon lead to chaos or triumph? Discover the lengths she'll go to defy expectations and achieve her dream.

Sale price

$1248

Picture Book · Ages 3–7 · 2003

I Knew You Could!

By Craig Dorfman, Cristina Ong (Illustrator) · The Little Engine That Could series

A little engine inspires graduates to embrace new beginnings with determination.

32 pages· 862 words· Est. 7 min read-aloud

4.4/5 Goodreads · 645 ratings

$12.99Save 4%

Hardcover

Summary: As graduates face life's transitions, the Little Blue Engine returns with wisdom and encouragement. From "I think I can" to "I knew I could," this tale inspires all ages to believe in their potential. Will they find the courage to move forward and achieve their dreams?

Sale price

$1797

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2021

Stay This Way Forever

By Linsey Davis, Lucy Fleming (Illustrator)

Celebrate a child's unique qualities and encourage them to stay this way forever.

32 pages

4.3/5 Goodreads · 209 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: In 'Stay This Way Forever,' a heartfelt journey unfolds as parents and grandparents celebrate the unique qualities of their children. Through playful rhymes and whimsical illustrations, this book encourages young minds to embrace their individuality and diversity. As children discover their special traits, the story poses a gentle question: Can these endearing qualities remain with them forever? This enchanting tale is a love letter to the innocence and wonder of childhood, inviting readers to cherish and nurture the special attributes that make each child unique. A perfect read for ages 4-8, it promises lasting impact and joy.

Sale price

$1797

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 1990

Oh, the Places You'll Go!

By Dr. Seuss · Classic Seuss series

A young person sets out on a journey of self-discovery and growth.

44 pages· 899 words· Est. 7 min read-aloud

5.3/7 Bookroo·4.4/5 Goodreads · 450,217 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Embark on a whimsical journey through life's highs and lows, guided by playful rhymes and vibrant illustrations. Discover the courage to face challenges and the joy in every adventure. Will you find the success that lies within? This timeless tale inspires readers of all ages to embrace new beginnings with confidence and curiosity. Perfect for anyone stepping into a new chapter, it reminds us that life is a 'Great Balancing Act' filled with endless possibilities and fun. What paths will you choose, and where will they lead you?

Sale price

$1797

Picture Book · Ages 6–9 · 2020

Starcrossed

By Julia Denos

Two friends' wishes lead them to unexpected worlds, testing their bond across time and space.

64 pages

4.2/5 Goodreads · 376 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Eridani, a passionate stargazer, and Acamar, a celestial being, share an extraordinary friendship. When their wishes unexpectedly swap their worlds, they must navigate new realities. Can their bond withstand the cosmic distance and the challenges of their new lives? This enchanting tale explores the power of friendship and the unpredictable nature of wishes, as Eridani and Acamar discover that even the brightest dreams can lead to unforeseen adventures. Will they find a way back to each other, or will their friendship be lost among the stars?

Sale price

$474

Chapter Book · Ages 6–10 · 2008

Mrs. Dole Is Out of Control!

By Dan Gutman, Jim Paillot (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the My Weird School Daze series

A second-grade class navigates the challenges of the last days of school, including a chaotic graduation ceremony.

112 pages· 7,830 words· Est. 1.5 hour read

4.2/5 Goodreads · 2,217 ratings

$4.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: A.J. and his friends are ready to graduate, but the PTA president's extravagant plans threaten to turn the ceremony into chaos. With fireworks, a petting zoo, and even a flyover, moving up to third grade becomes a wild adventure. Can A.J. and the gang survive the madness, or will everything go hilariously wrong? Dive into this quirky tale of unexpected twists and laugh-out-loud moments.

Sale price

$674

Chapter Book · Ages 6–9 · 2001

Junie B. Jones Is a Graduation Girl

By Barbara Park, Denise Brunkus (Illustrator) · Book #17 in the Junie B. Jones series

A young girl navigates the challenges of kindergarten and prepares for graduation

72 pages· 6,597 words· Est. 1 hour read

4.1/5 Goodreads · 7,148 ratings

$6.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Junie B. Jones, the world's funniest kindergartener, faces a big challenge: keeping her graduation gown pristine until the ceremony. But when curiosity gets the best of her, an unexpected mishap threatens to turn the event into a spotty dotty disaster. Can Junie B. save the day, or will her antics lead to chaos? Join her hilarious journey as she navigates the ups and downs of kindergarten graduation, promising laughter and surprises at every turn.

Sale price

$1520

Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 2004

The Best Is Yet to Come

By Anne Mazer · Book #1 in the The Amazing Days of Abby Hayes Super Special series

Abby's summer plans unravel when unexpected guests arrive, turning her world upside down.

144 pages

4.0/5 Goodreads · 506 ratings

$16.00Save 5%

Library Binding

Summary: Abby eagerly anticipates a peaceful summer after graduating fifth grade, but her plans are derailed when her mom's friend Laurie and her daughter Wynter arrive. Tasked with babysitting, Abby's patience wears thin as Laurie's career pursuits take precedence. Will Abby reclaim her summer freedom, or will chaos reign? Dive into a summer of unexpected challenges and discover if Abby can find balance amidst the upheaval.

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Graduation Picture Books

Illustrated read-alouds about graduation for preschool and elementary-age readers.

Series

Sale price

$1599

Curious You: On Your Way!

Ages 4–7 · 2008

Embark on new adventures with encouragement and dreams yet to explore.

Series

Sale price

$599

The Berenstain Bears' Graduation Day

Ages 4–8 · 2014

Will Honey Bear join the graduation fun at Bear Country School?

Sale price

$1899

Teachers Rock!

Ages 3–6 · 2016

Discover how teachers inspire and transform lives every day.

Sale price

$1799

Becoming a Good Creature

Ages 4–7 · 2020

Discover life's lessons from animals on friendship and compassion in this enchanting tale.

Sale price

$1799

Here and Now

Ages 4–7 · 2019

Discover the magic of mindfulness and the wonder of the present moment.

Sale price

$1499

Your Magnificent Chooser

Ages 3–6 · 2017

Discover the power of choices and how they shape us from childhood.

Series

Sale price

$1899

Will the Pigeon Graduate?

Ages 3–5

Will the Pigeon graduate or face unexpected hurdles?

Series

Sale price

$1599

You're on Your Way!

Ages 4–7

A bunny cheers you on, eager to join your next adventure. Where will you go together?

Series

Sale price

$1799

Happy Graduation!

Ages 4–8 · 2006

First graders face a graduation surprise that tests their teamwork skills.

Sale price

$1899

Moving Up!

Ages 4–8 · 2024

Five young graduates dream big. What will you become?

Sale price

$1799

What Would You Wish For?

Ages 4–8 · 2020

Can a child's wish change the world? Discover the power of kindness.

Series

Sale price

$599

Graduation Day!

Ages 4–8

A child reflects on their last day of kindergarten.

View all graduation picture books

Browse by age

Graduation Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about graduation for developing and independent readers.

#31 in Series

Sale price

$499

The Graduation Day Mystery

Ages 7–10 · 2011

A special gift vanishes at a graduation. Can a young sleuth solve the mystery before the celebration is ruined?

#3 in Series

Sale price

$1599

Graduation Day

Ages 12–+ · 2014

In a future on the brink of war, a survivor must end a deadly test. Who can she trust?

Series

Sale price

$399

Wizards Don't Wear Graduation Gowns

Ages 7–10 · 2002

Is the new assistant principal a wizard with a wild graduation plan?

#12 in Series

Sale price

$599

Lil Mouse Is in the House!

Ages 6–10 · 2022

A third-grader navigates the challenges of school and friendships while trying to figure out the truth about his school's mysterious events.

Series

Sale price

$799

Cupcakes Are Forever

Ages 8–11 · 2017

Kylie's future is uncertain as she faces graduation and a potential move. Can she keep her cupcake club alive?

Series

Sale price

$1499

Most Valuable Players

Ages 8–12 · 2019

Will Rip and Red risk graduation for a cause they believe in?

View all graduation chapter books

Keep exploring

Books about exams and tests Books about missing persons

The Best Graduation Books for Kids

Our 10 Favorite Books About Graduation

The Testing

The Tale of You

A Balloon for Isabel

I Knew You Could!

Stay This Way Forever

Oh, the Places You'll Go!

Starcrossed

Mrs. Dole Is Out of Control!

Junie B. Jones Is a Graduation Girl

The Best Is Yet to Come

Great books, picked for their age.

Graduation Picture Books

Curious You: On Your Way!

The Berenstain Bears' Graduation Day

Teachers Rock!

Becoming a Good Creature

Here and Now

Your Magnificent Chooser

Will the Pigeon Graduate?

You're on Your Way!

Happy Graduation!

Moving Up!

What Would You Wish For?

Graduation Day!

Graduation Chapter Books & Middle Grade

The Graduation Day Mystery

Graduation Day

Wizards Don't Wear Graduation Gowns

Lil Mouse Is in the House!

Cupcakes Are Forever

Most Valuable Players

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