25 Must-Read Storybooks with a School Background for Students

From magical classrooms to mischievous pranks, schools have always been a favorite setting for unforgettable stories. This curated list of 25 engaging storybooks set in school environments brings together tales of friendship, fun, challenges, and triumphs—perfect for young readers. Whether you're looking for laughter, inspiration, or heartwarming moments, these books offer something for every student to relate to and enjoy. Explore this collection to spark a love for reading and connect students with stories that reflect their own school lives.

	Matilda – Roald Dahl Matilda is a gifted girl mistreated by her parents and terrorized by her school's headmistress. With her intelligence and a bit of magic, she finds friendship in her kind teacher Miss Honey and stands up for what's right.
	School Days – Ruskin Bond A nostalgic collection of stories from Ruskin Bond's childhood in a boarding school in India. Full of pranks, friendships, and the beauty of growing up in the hills.
	Wonder – R.J. Palacio Auggie Pullman, born with a facial difference, joins a mainstream school for the first time. The story is about kindness, acceptance, and seeing the world through different eyes.
	The Gopi Diaries– Sudha Murty Told from the perspective of a dog named Gopi, this story shows how Gopi adjusts to his new home and his human family’s routines, including school-going children.
	Diary of a Wimpy Kid – Jeff Kinney Greg Heffley documents his middle school life with hilarious illustrations. He deals with bullies, homework, crushes, and embarrassing family moments.
	Frindle – Andrew Clements Nick Allen decides to call a pen a “frindle” and accidentally starts a language revolution in his school, challenging authority and discovering the power of words.
	The Boy in the Dress – David Walliams Dennis lives in a boring town, but he loves fashion. His life changes when he wears a dress to school and breaks social norms—with humor and heart.
	Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone – J.K. Rowling Harry discovers he’s a wizard and goes to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. He makes lifelong friends and faces dark forces for the first time.
	There’s a Boy in the Girls’ Bathroom – Louis Sachar Bradley is the school bully who no one likes. But with the help of a school counselor, he begins a touching journey of self-improvement and friendship.
	The Hundred Dresses – Eleanor Estes Wanda, a quiet girl at school, claims she has a hundred dresses at home. Her classmates mock her until they realize the truth—and learn a lesson about kindness and bullying.
	The Boy at the Back of the Class - Onjali Q. Rauf A child's perspective on the refugee crisis, highlighting the importance of friendship and kindness in a world that doesn't always make sense.
	Mystery Of The School On Fire - Ravi Subramanian Meet the Super Mystery Solvers or the SMS gang of Aditya and Akriti, the nine-year-old twins, and their close friend Kabir. Together, they solve the mysteries that have baffled the police and authorities of Solan.
	Class Six and the Very Big Rabbit – Payal Kapadia Class 6 is shocked when a giant rabbit joins their classroom. This humorous fantasy touches on friendship, school projects, and teamwork.
	Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing – Judy Blume Peter has enough trouble in school—then he has to deal with his mischievous little brother Fudge who creates chaos at home and at his school!
	The Naughtiest Girl in the School - Enid Blyton Follows the story of Elizabeth Allen, a spoiled and headstrong girl who is sent to Whyteleafe School, a progressive boarding school. Determined to misbehave and get expelled, Elizabeth causes all kinds of trouble, thinking she’ll hate it there.
	Just William – Richmal Crompton William, a mischievous schoolboy, finds himself in constant trouble with his teachers, parents, and neighbors—yet somehow wins hearts with his charm.
	Big Nate: In a Class by Himself – Lincoln Peirce Big Nate is certain he’s destined for greatness—except he’s always in trouble at school! A laugh-out-loud series full of comic-strip style fun.
	The Class – Frances O'Roark Dowell Told from the perspectives of 20 students in a single sixth-grade class, this book gives a heartwarming and diverse look into school life and personalities.
	Malgudi Schooldays – R.K. Narayan Follow Swami and his friends as they navigate life in a small South Indian town, skipping school, playing pranks, and dealing with strict teachers.
	St. Clare’s Series – Enid Blyton Set in a girls’ boarding school, this series follows the O'Sullivan twins and their adventures, friendships, and fun challenges at St. Clare’s.
	The Worst Class in the World – Joanna Nadin Class 4B is full of lovable disasters who are always in trouble. With short, hilarious stories and quirky characters, it’s perfect for reluctant readers.
	The Secret School – Avi When the teacher leaves unexpectedly, 14-year-old Ida secretly takes over running the school in her rural community. A story about responsibility and leadership.
	The View from Saturday – E.L. Konigsburg Four gifted students form a quiz team and surprise everyone. Each has a unique story that connects back to school, friendship, and support.
	Fish in a Tree – Lynda Mullaly Hunt Ally struggles with dyslexia and hides her inability to read from everyone. A new teacher helps her see her real strengths—and how being different is powerful.
	The Terrible Two – Mac Barnett & Jory John A prank war between two clever boys at school turns into a surprising friendship. Smart, funny, and great for fans of creative mischief.