Bubu Island Books of the Month: August

Summer is winding down, but there's still plenty of reading magic left in the season. At Bubu Island, we believe the last stretch of summer is the perfect time to slow down, snuggle up, and enjoy a few more stories before the new school year begins.

This month, we've chosen five books that celebrate adventure, friendship, and the small moments of courage that come with new beginnings because for many little ones, August also means soon it is time to get ready for a new class, a new teacher, or even a first day of school in September so now is the best time to start getting used to it and these books may just be what we need.

Dear Zoo

By Rod Cambell

A timeless lift-the-flap favourite, Dear Zoo follows a child's search for the perfect pet, with surprises hiding behind every flap.

Why we love it:

• Builds vocabulary through animal names and describing words
• Strengthens fine motor skills with each flap lifted
• Encourages prediction and anticipation

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Llama Llama Misses Mama

By Anna Dewdney

A sweet and honest story about the big feelings that come with separation perfect for little ones preparing for their first days at nursery or school.

Why we love it:

• Normalises feelings of worry around new routines
• Opens up conversation about saying goodbye
• Reassures children that mama (or papa) always comes back

A comforting read for anxious first-timers and their grown-ups alike.

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How Do Dinosaurs Go to School?

By Jane Yolen & Mark Teague

A funny, oversized look at good and bad classroom behaviour, told through gigantic, mischievous dinosaurs.

Why we love it:

• Introduces classroom routines in a playful, non-threatening way
• Encourages discussion about kindness and good manners
• Makes the idea of "school" feel exciting rather than scary

A brilliant back-to-school read for the whole family.

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The Rainbow Fish

By Marcus Pfister

With its shimmering, iridescent scales, Rainbow Fish learns that true friendship comes from sharing, not showing off.

Why we love it:

• Introduces themes of generosity and community
• Sparks conversation about making new friends
• Beautiful illustrations that captivate visual learners

A gentle nudge for children starting a new class or meeting new friends.

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The Suitcase

By Chris Naylor-Ballesteros

A quietly powerful story about a strange animal who arrives carrying a suitcase, and the curiosity, suspicion, and eventual kindness of the animals who meet him.

Why we love it:

• Encourages empathy toward those who seem "different"
• Opens gentle conversations about welcoming others
• Beautifully simple illustrations paired with a meaningful message

A wonderful choice for talking about new faces in the classroom.