Fall is one of the most magical times of the year in the classroom! The colorful leaves, cozy weather, and seasonal changes make it a perfect time for reading, learning, and exploring nature. Whether you’re planning a science lesson about seasons, a writing activity about fall, or simply want a festive read-aloud, these popular autumn and leaf-themed books for elementary students will inspire curiosity and gratitude for the changing world around them.
🍁 1. “Leaf Man” by Lois Ehlert
This classic fall favorite follows a “Leaf Man” who drifts wherever the wind blows. The creative collage illustrations made from real leaves spark imagination and nature appreciation.
Why teachers love it: Perfect for teaching about leaves, weather, and change.
Extension idea: Have students collect leaves and create their own “Leaf Person” art inspired by the book.
🍂 2. “Fletcher and the Falling Leaves” by Julia Rawlinson
Fletcher the fox worries when the beautiful leaves fall from his favorite tree—but he soon learns it’s all part of the natural cycle.
Why teachers love it: Encourages empathy and understanding of change.
Extension idea: Use this book for a science tie-in about the seasons or a SEL lesson on letting go and embracing change.
🌰 3. “Red Leaf, Yellow Leaf” by Lois Ehlert
Told through a child’s perspective, this story shows the life of a tree from seed to sapling to full-grown beauty. The vibrant illustrations make it a standout choice for fall.
Why teachers love it: Great for discussions about plant life cycles and environmental awareness.
Extension idea: Have students observe and document changes in a tree near your school.
🍁 4. “The Little Yellow Leaf” by Carin Berger
A beautifully illustrated story about a small yellow leaf who isn’t quite ready to fall—until it finds courage through friendship.
Why teachers love it: A wonderful SEL story about bravery and friendship.
Extension idea: Connect it to a writing prompt: “What helps you feel brave?”
🍂 5. “We’re Going on a Leaf Hunt” by Steve Metzger
Inspired by We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, this rhythmic story takes children on a fun adventure through the forest to find colorful leaves.
Why teachers love it: Great for movement, sequencing, and interactive read-alouds.
Extension idea: Go on a real leaf hunt around the school and sort leaves by color, size, or shape.
🍁 6. “Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn” by Kenard Pak
Follow a young girl as she walks through her town, noticing all the signs of the changing season.
Why teachers love it: Perfect for exploring seasonal transitions and descriptive language.
Extension idea: Have students write sensory poems about what fall looks, smells, and feels like.
🌾 7. “Fall Mixed Up” by Bob Raczka
This hilarious, rhyming picture book mixes up all the typical fall happenings—like bears picking apples and squirrels flying south!
Why teachers love it: It’s funny and perfect for teaching students to listen for details and spot silly mistakes.
Extension idea: Have students write their own “mixed-up” fall stories.
🍂 8. “In November” by Cynthia Rylant
A beautifully poetic story that captures the calm, cozy essence of November.
Why teachers love it: Ideal for mindfulness, quiet moments, or reflective writing.
Extension idea: Encourage students to create watercolor art inspired by the text.
🍁 9. “Leif and the Fall” by Allison Sweet Grant & Adam Grant
Leif the leaf doesn’t want to fall—so he invents creative ways to land softly! This story blends humor, perseverance, and STEM thinking.
Why teachers love it: Great for combining fall themes with growth mindset lessons.
Extension idea: Challenge students to create their own “safe landing” contraptions for paper leaves using simple materials.
🌳 10. “Because of an Acorn” by Lola M. Schaefer
A beautiful introduction to the concept of ecosystems and how everything in nature is connected—from acorns to trees to animals.
Why teachers love it: Perfect for science lessons about habitats and life cycles.
Extension idea: Create a class mural showing the connections between plants, animals, and trees.
🍂 Bringing the Beauty of Autumn into Your Classroom
Autumn is a wonderful time to connect literacy, science, and creativity. Whether you’re reading about falling leaves, exploring changes in nature, or reflecting on gratitude, these stories will help students slow down and notice the beauty of the season.
Links to Love
Leaf Literacy and Math Activities
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