First Day
by Joan Rankin
Margaret K. McElderry Books 2002
Great fit for 1st grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- first-day jitters
- separation anxiety
- family support
- courage
- self-confidence
- school life
- feelings and emotions
About this book
This gentle picture book follows a young child facing the first day of school with a mix of nerves and excitement. Warm, comforting illustrations and simple text capture common worries and the reassuring support of family. It’s a great read-aloud for preschoolers and early elementary students getting ready for a big new step. Kids enjoy its relatable feelings, cozy tone, and hopeful ending.
Setting: a child’s home and primary school, present day
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is First Day right for my child?
Yes — First Day is a great fit for 1st grade. The reading level is AR 1.5, which is typical for 1st grade. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 5–9 (K–3rd grade). Themes include first-day jitters, separation anxiety, family support.
How long does it take to read First Day?
At a typical 1st grade reading pace, First Day takes around 5m to finish. The book has 400 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does First Day have an AR quiz?
Yes — First Day has an AR quiz available, worth 0.5 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is First Day?
First Day has an AR reading level of 1.5, which places it at a 1st grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.