14 Faith-Based Back-to-School Reads for You and Your Little Ones
Whether you’re tucking in a young reader at night or navigating the everyday chaos of family life, back-to-school time is the perfect time for new books! There’s something about the crisp feeling of a new season—sharpened pencils, fresh backpacks, new routines—that makes it the ideal moment to refresh what’s sitting on your family’s bookshelf too.
The books we choose to fill our homes with shape the way our kids see the world—and the way we, as parents, show up for them. Every story a child returns to again and again becomes part of how they understand courage, kindness, and their own place in the world, and every resource a parent leans on becomes part of how that family navigates the harder conversations together.
This list brings together stories that build character and courage for kids, alongside resources that equip moms and dads with practical, faith-rooted tools for the conversations, money lessons, and big emotions that come with raising a family. From picture books that spark bedtime conversation to guides that help you talk to your kids about budgeting, from stories that model bravery in small everyday moments to resources that walk you through the big feelings that show up at the dinner table, this collection was built with real family life in mind.
Whatever season you’re in, there’s something here to add to your shelf. Consider this your back-to-school reading list, not just for the kids heading out the door, but for the parents guiding them along the way.
For Young Readers:
Lucy Learns to Be Brave by Sissy Goff
Meet a timid little dog who’s afraid of everything from car rides to hiccups, and follow along as she discovers she isn’t alone and doesn’t have to feel afraid.
Pippa Learns to Share the Spotlight by Sissy Goff and David Thomas
Pippa is a pup who loves being the center of attention, and this story helps her, and young readers, learn to handle jealousy and find contentment in sharing the spotlight.
Owen Learns He Has What It Takes by David Thomas
Owen is a nervous yellow lab who’s afraid of new places and people, and his story shows kids that they can try new things without letting fear hold them back.
Happy Finds Her Calm by Sissy Goff and David Thomas
Happy is a friendly, boisterous puppy who has to learn self-control so she can be a better listener and a better friend.
The Big Book of Life Skills for Kids by Sandy Silverthorne
Packed with wit and practical wisdom, this guide walks kids through the everyday questions of growing up, from making friends and handling anger to talking with God and packing their own lunch.
Young David Series Box Set by Andy McGuire
Inspired by the animated Young David series, this early-reader chapter book collection imagines the shepherd boy’s youth and the courage and compassion that would one day shape him into Israel’s chosen king.
The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom, Elizabeth Sherrill and John Sherrill
This graphic novel adaptation of the bestselling classic brings Corrie ten Boom’s true story of courage and faith during the Holocaust to life for a new generation of readers.
Revolutionary Heroes by Pat Williams and Jim Denney
This collection of true stories introduces young readers to the ordinary men, women, and even kids whose extraordinary courage helped win America’s fight for independence.
The Manual to Middle School by Jonathan Catherman
With a practical “do this, not that” format, this survival guide helps boys navigate the lockers, friendships, and challenges of the middle school years with confidence.
Books to Help Your Family:
Having Spiritual Conversations with Your Kids by Dr. Katheryn Saunders
This practical, faith-filled guide equips busy parents to create meaningful space for spiritual conversations with kids and teens, no matter how packed the schedule gets.
Teach a Kid to Save by Stephen Day
Through a hands-on household “mini-economy,” this research-based guide teaches kids to earn, save, and spend wisely while building healthy money habits that last a lifetime.
Parenting a Spicy One by Mary Van Geffen
Written by a parenting coach and self-proclaimed “Spicy One,” this compassionate guide offers small, doable strategies for staying calm and connected with a strong-willed, deep-feeling child.
Capable by Sissy Goff and David Thomas
Grounded in research and counseling experience, this guide helps parents raise confident kids who believe in their ability to work through problems and keep going when things get hard.
I Am Capable by Sissy Goff and David Thomas
Designed for kids ages six to twelve, this faith-informed companion book builds resilience through practical, research-backed strategies kids can put into practice every day.
You can find all of these books, plus many more at great discounts, at BakerBookHouse.com!
Happy reading,
Team Club31Women
