Going to School Books for Kids in Chinese and English
Time for a new school year! In preparation, my kids and I have been reading English and Chinese picture books about going to school. Books are a fantastic way for children to talk about new friends and exciting milestones at school. Stories also support kids through challenges like bullying and learning difficulties.
Since we’re raising bilingual children, we’re sharing our favorite books about school in English and Chinese. Most of these are compatible with Luka Reading Robot, a high-quality Mandarin audiobook player. Other Chinese books can be read with the Youdao Dictionary Pen. I hope you will find new favorites here!
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Best first day of school books in Chinese and English
The Day You Begin / 你從這一天開始
This heartfelt book encourages children, parents, and teachers to celebrate the bravery of the first day of school. Beautiful illustrations on each page show diverse children facing their fears about being different. Walking to a new classroom isn’t easy, but it’s a chance to learn about new friends and their stories.
- English edition: Amazon
- Traditional Chinese: Books Taiwan
Related: 100 Best Children’s Books with Asian Main Characters
The Invisible String / 看不见的线
A mother reassures her children that they’re all connected by an invisible string made of love. Doubtful, the children insist on more details. What kind of string, how long is it, does it ever go away? This beautiful book is good to keep on hand for children who struggle with separation anxiety, like during the start of a new school year.
- English edition: Amazon
- Simplified Chinese: China Sprout
- Mandarin narration: Luka Reading Robot
Mom, Today is My First Day of Kindergarten! / 妈妈, 今天是我第一天上学!
On the first day of kindergarten, a little boy wakes up early and proudly packs his backpack. At first, the mom appears tiny and blue—an artistic rendering of mama-bear worries. Her appearance gradually normalizes as she grows more comfortable and confident with her child in school.
- English edition: Amazon
- Simplified Chinese: China Sprout
- Mandarin narration: Ximalaya and Luka Reading Robot
Related: Learn the Chinese Going to School Song with Printable Lyrics
I Am Too Absolutely Small for School / 我太小，我不要上學
In this relatable book, siblings Charlie and Lola are getting ready for the first day of school. However, little sister Lola is hesitant. She doesn’t see the point. Thankfully, her big brother, Charlie, is supportive and patient. It will be worth it, he explains. Lola’s invisible friend can even come to school!
- English edition: Amazon
- Traditional Chinese: Yo! Baby Shop
Children’s books about bullying in Chinese and English
Invisible Boy; My Secret Bully / 隱形男孩 / 隱形男孩
A little boy named Brian feels lonely and left out of lunch, gym, and school parties. One day, a new Korean American student, Justin, joins the school and is teased for eating bulgogi at lunch. However, Brian welcomes Justin, and the two children develop a new friendship despite their challenges.
- English edition: Amazon
- Simplified Chinese: China Sprout
- Traditional Chinese: Books Taiwan
- Mandarin narration: YouTube and Luka Reading Robot
Related: How to Talk to Kids About Racism: Inclusive, Bilingual Resources
The Smallest Girl in the Smallest Grade / 最低年级里个子最小的女孩 / 年紀最小的班級裡，個子最小的女孩
This uplifting story celebrates Sally, the smallest girl in her class. Despite her petite and quiet nature, she uses her astute observations and brave voice to stand up against bullying. The adorable illustrations feature children of different shapes, sizes, and colors.
- English edition: Amazon
- Simplified Chinese: China Sprout
- Traditional Chinese with Zhuyin: China Sprout
- Mandarin narration: Ximalaya, YouTube, and Luka Reading Robot
Related: Bullying Prevention Resources for Bilingual and Bicultural Kids
Books about school challenges in Chinese and English
Courage / 勇气 / 勇氣
What is courage? When do you need to be brave? This book explores the various situations in which children need courage, including big and seemingly small situations, inside and outside school.
- English: Amazon
- Simplified or Traditional Chinese: China Sprout
The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes / 零错误女孩
A girl named Beatrice is famous for never making mistakes in her town. One day, she makes a big mistake in front of everyone. At first, she’s mortified, but she learns to laugh off the mistake and keep on trying. This book is an excellent reminder that perfection is virtually impossible — including at school! Mistakes are growing and learning opportunities.
- English: Amazon
- Simplified Chinese: Amazon
- Mandarin narration: YouTube, Ximalaya (Michael 钱儿爸, 蜜桃姐姐), and Luka Reading Robot
Books about school libraries in Chinese and English
Madeline Finn and the Library Dog / 玛德琳和图书馆里的狗
Madeline Finn is a child who dreads reading. She feels discouraged because classmates laugh at her mistakes. Instead of stars, she gets “keep trying” stickers. Luckily, she feels safe to try reading in the company of a cozy therapy dog. This tender story highlights an effective solution to learning challenges — and an antidote to reward systems and mean peers at school.
- English edition: Amazon
- Simplified Chinese: China Sprout
- Mandarin narration: Ximalaya and Luka Reading Robot
图书馆狮子 / Library Lion
A lion loves to visit the library and cuddle with children during storytime. But school libraries are supposed to be quiet! When he roars, he’s scolded for being too noisy. .
One day, the lion roars for help when he discovers the librarian has fallen. Initially, he’s turned away for being too loud again. Eventually, everyone learns that rules have exceptions, and roars can be helpful!
- English edition: Amazon
- Simplified Chinese: China Sprout or Amazon
- Mandarin narration: Ximalaya or Luka Reading Robot
Related: Cute Chinese Children’s Books About Dogs
Chinese chapter books about school
If your kids enjoy longer books, my children recommend these Chinese chapter books about school!
What are your favorite Chinese books about school?
What stories are you reading with your child? Please share in the comments below!