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Do. Save. Learn. Fall Reading List

September 18, 2024

As a parent, grandparent or caregiver, one of the best ways to support your student’s future is by teaching them about money from an early age. Whether your young student is just starting to understand the value of a dollar through chores and allowances, or your pre-teen is beginning to think about financial independence and their first job, learning sound financial practices is key. Instilling good financial habits early on not only prepares your student for education after high school but also lays a strong foundation for making smart lifelong financial decisions.

Introducing these concepts doesn’t have to be difficult. One of the most effective ways is through engaging, age-appropriate books! That’s why we’ve curated a selection of book recommendations designed to captivate young minds while imparting valuable lessons about money management and future planning. Each section is organized by “Do, Save, Learn”—with one book focused on an activity, one on money-saving habits, and one on learning something new. From whimsical tales for young readers to insightful guides for teens, these books will not only entertain but also equip your student with the knowledge they need to confidently navigate their financial future.

Your Do. Save. Learn. Fall Reading List

Books for Preschool Age Kids

Preschoolers are just beginning to grasp the concept of money, making this the perfect time to introduce lessons about responsible saving and spending through engaging stories.

Do: Paddy’s Pay Day by Alexandra Day
Follow Paddy, a performing Irish terrier, as he takes a day off from the circus and spends a delightful time in a country town. This charming tale introduces young readers to the idea of working and enjoying the rewards.

Save: Max’s Money Machine by Ken Wilson-Max
Children will love interacting with this playful story as they put their very own Max coin in slots, bags, and even a magic hat while learning about the value of money and how it works.

Learn: Just Shopping with Mom by Mercer Mayer
In this classic Little Critter story, kids follow along as Little Critter heads to the grocery store with his mom and siblings. It’s the perfect way to teach young children about behavior and choices in everyday shopping scenarios.

Books for Elementary Age Kids
At this stage, your student is absorbing everything around them, making it an ideal time to teach them about financial responsibility. Now’s the time to help them develop good financial habits that will shape how they earn, save, and spend.

Do: A Bike Like Sergio’s by Maribeth Boelts, illustrated by Noah Z. Jones
In this story, Ruben finds someone’s lost money and faces a moral dilemma. As he learns how hard it can be to make the right choice, this book introduces kids to the concept of honesty, responsibility, and the value of money.

Save: Rock, Brock, and the Savings Shock by Sheila Bair, illustrated by Barry Gott
Twins Rock and Brock couldn’t be more different when it comes to saving and spending. Through rhyming text, they learn a valuable lesson in money management after their grandfather offers them a deal, demonstrating how saving can pay off in the long run.

Learn: The Lemonade War by Jacqueline Davies
In this sibling rivalry, a lemonade stand war teaches more than just business skills. Packed with marketing tips, definitions of business terms, charts, diagrams, and math problems, this story combines humor with practical lessons in entrepreneurship, problem-solving, and cooperation.

Books for Middle School Age Kids

As pre-teens and teens, your student is beginning to earn their own money and make more independent decisions. This is the perfect time to guide them toward smart financial choices.

Do: How to Steal a Dog by Barbara O’Connor
When Georgina sees a poster offering a $500 reward for a missing dog, she believes this could solve all her problems. This gripping story teaches important lessons about ethics, desperation, and the consequences of choices.

Save: The Not-So-Great Depression by Amy Goldman Koss
Jacki’s ninth-grade teacher talks a lot about the recession and unemployment, but it doesn’t feel real until her mom is laid off. Suddenly, money becomes a pressing issue, and Jacki learns firsthand about the financial struggles families face.

Learn: Hothead by Cal Ripken Jr. and Kevin Cowherd
Connor Sullivan is an All-Star shortstop, but his fiery temper threatens to derail his game. This book dives into how managing emotions and stress plays a critical role in success, both on and off the field, offering life lessons about personal growth and self-control.

 Books for High School Age Kids

As teenagers prepare for life after high school, they’ll need guidance and support to navigate their future paths. These books offer valuable insights and tips to help both you and your teen through this process.

Do: Brave, Not Perfect by Reshma Saujani
Inspired by her popular TED talk, Reshma Saujani encourages young women to embrace bravery over perfection. This empowering read helps teens, especially girls, develop the courage to take risks and step outside their comfort zones, an important skill for future success.

Save: What Color is Your Parachute? by Richard Nelson Bolles
This classic job-hunting guide offers teens a practical resource for navigating the job market. The updated edition provides strategies, resources, and insights that will help them focus on what works when it comes to finding a career path after high school or college.

Learn: Every Body Looking by Candice Iloh
In this powerful novel, Ada—caught between her immigrant father’s expectations and her own quest for identity—struggles to find her place. This coming-of-age story offers teens a deep exploration of identity, self-expression, and finding one’s voice.

Bottom line: It’s Never Too Early!

Teaching children about money and responsible financial habits is a lifelong gift that will serve them well as they grow. No matter where your student is in life, these curated book lists offer valuable lessons that are both engaging and informative for all ages. By incorporating these stories into their routine, you can spark important conversations about earning, saving, and making smart financial decisions.

Start building a strong financial foundation for your student today—one book at a time!