September Reads: What to Read With Little Ones This Month
Happy September! It’s the month for getting back to school, the start of fall, International Talk Like a Pirate Day, and more. We'll help you "fall" into the season with these fun recommendations for young readers.
Get back to school with classic stories and characters
I Am Too Absolutely Small for School by Lauren Child
Lola doesn’t think she needs to go to school. She’s definitely not big enough and she already knows how to count to ten, what more does she need to know? Can Lola's big brother Charlie convince her that school is good for her?
Amelia Bedelia's First Day of School by Herman Parish
Spend a day with the lovable and amusing Amelia Bedelia as she begins school, meets new friends, and gets crafty.
David Goes to School by David Shannon
Mischevious David learns how to behave in school and earn a gold star. This fun read is sure to get giggles from little ones.
How Do Dinosaurs Go To School by Jane Yolen & Mark Teague
Dinosaur is off to school and he's on his best behavior as he makes friends and helps out classmates. Perfect for young dinosuar fans with full-page colorful illustrations.
Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes
Wemberly worries about everything, big and small. So it’s no surprise that when it’s time for the first day of school, her list of worries grow. Can Wemberly overcome her fears and start school with the other kids?
Commemorate Patriot Day and the heroes of Sept 11
Fireboat: The Heroic Adventures of the John J. Harvey by Maira Kalman
Based on the true story of the John J. Harvey fireboat, from its making in the 1930s to its role in the tragedy of 9/11. Provides an introduction to the events of 9/11 for younger audiences.
Saved by the Boats: The Heroic Sea Evacuation of September 11 by Julie Gassman
This nonfiction picture book is based on the story of the heroic boat captains and crews who helped thousands of people get to safety on 9/11. A gentle introduction to 9/11, and a story of hope and humanity for young readers.
Celebrate International Talk Like A Pirate Day on Sept 19
Twenty-Six Pirates by Dave Horowitz
Meet twenty-six pirates in this alphabetical rhyming book!
Captain Monty Takes the Plunge by Jennifer Mook-Sang
Captain Monty is a brave pirate with a not-so-brave secret. When he meets a mermaid named Meg, Monty struggles to keep his secret to himself. Perhaps Meg can help Monty let go of the secret that's holding him back.
No Pirates Allowed! said Library Lou by Rhonda Gowler Greene
Pete the pirate is searching for treasure in the library! But first, he must learn all about letters and words to search for clues to the fortune.
Get ready for leaf-jumping season
In The Middle of Fall by Kevin Henkes
In this beautifully painted and poetic book, watch the lovely colors and images of fall come alive. Perfect for preschoolers.
Bella's Fall Coat by Lynn Plourde
Little Bella loves all things fall, especially her favorite fall coat from Grandma. But when Bella can no longer fit her coat, Grandma must come to the rescue.
Pick a Circle, Gather Squares: A Fall Harvest of Shapes by Felicia Sanzari Chernesky
On a fall hayride, a family finds different shapes throughout the pumpkin patch. Collage-style art with fall colors make this a perfect pick for preschoolers.
Wonderfall by Michael Hall
A tree goes through the "wonderfall" season of fall and into winter. Told through short poems with lively digital artwork, this is a great read for all ages.
Read E-Books with SimplyE
With your library card, it's easier than ever to choose from more than 300,000 e-books on SimplyE, The New York Public Library's free e-reader app. Gain access to digital resources for all ages, including e-books, audiobooks, databases, and more.
If you don’t have an NYPL library card, New York State residents can apply for a digital card online or through SimplyE (available on the App Store or Google Play).
Need more help? Read our guide to using SimplyE.