The final weeks of school do ring extra special about read-aloud time. It is a moment of calm, connection, and celebration as the year comes to an end. Whether you want to help students look back at this school year and reflect, laugh, or look ahead to next year, the right read-aloud can bring about meaningful conversations and create lasting memories.
But right now, you are looking for some titles to add to your routine. If you are looking for any, then you are in the right place. Here are 10 books perfect to wrap up the school year with your K-2 students, with tips on how to extend the learning with these books.
📚 Top 10 End-of-Year Read-Alouds for K–2
Last Day Blues by Julie Danneberg
A relatable and funny look at the last day of school from a teacher’s perspective.
🔁 Extension idea: Have students write notes to their future teachers or make their own “last day letters.”
The Night Before First Grade by Natasha Wing
Perfect for students transitioning to a new grade.
🔁 *Pair with a memory book page about “My favorite things in 1st grade.”_
A Letter From Your Teacher on the Last Day of School by Shannon Olsen
A heartwarming way to close the year with gratitude and encouragement.
🔁 Include a class letter-writing activity or thank-you notes for staff.
Oh, the Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss
A classic that inspires students to dream big.
🔁 Create “My future goals” mini-booklets or art projects.
Miss Bindergarten Celebrates the Last Day of Kindergarten by Joseph Slate
Perfect for kindergarteners — full of celebration and closure.
🔁 Do a classroom scavenger hunt or themed ABC countdown to go with it.
The Goodbye Book by Todd Parr
A simple, comforting book about change and saying goodbye.
🔁 Talk about changes and have students draw or write what they’ll miss most.
I Wish You More by Amy Krouse Rosenthal
A sweet and poetic wish for students as they move on.
🔁 Let students write their own “I wish” messages to classmates.
The World Needs More Purple People by Kristen Bell & Benjamin Hart
Encourages kindness, curiosity, and being yourself.
🔁 Great for reflection on classroom values or a class "We Are" poster.
Be You! by Peter H. Reynolds
Celebrates individuality and growth — perfect for end-of-year affirmations.
🔁 Have students make self-portraits with “I am…” statements.
Goodbye, School by Tonya Lippert
For students who might be feeling sad or anxious about the year ending.
🔁 Pair with a guided discussion or a "Top 10 Moments" list activity.
