Remember St. Patrick's Day in those early elementary years? Leprechaun traps, green glitter, pots of gold, oh my! Sometimes I wish I could do those activities with my bigger learners. But I've realized they still LOVE having seasonal, holiday fun.
In this post, I’ve collected my favorite St. Patrick’s Day books for big kids. Trust me, these picture books still have a lot to offer! They will spark your students' imaginations and provide opportunities for reading, writing, and cultural lessons. Plus, I’ll share some tips on how to make these texts a valuable part of your classroom activities!
Literary Elements: Setting, Theme
Themes to Explore: Faith, Sacrifice, Perseverance
In this beautifully illustrated book, Tomie dePaola tells the story of St. Patrick’s life, from his capture in Ireland to his eventual return as a missionary. Teachers can discuss the historical setting and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity, as well as how faith and self-sacrifice are central themes in Patrick's life.
How to Catch a Leprechaun By: Adam Wallace
Literary Elements: Plot, Problem-Solution
Themes to Explore: Imagination, Determination, Problem-Solving
This playful, rhyming story follows a group of kids who creatively plan to catch a leprechaun. Teachers can explore the structure of the story and how the characters’ problem-solving skills lead them to humorous and imaginative solutions, perfect for sparking creative writing ideas.
Literary Elements: Character Development, Conflict
Themes to Explore: Bravery, Tradition, Family
In this heartwarming tale, young Jamie sets out to participate in the St. Patrick's Day parade despite doubts about his age. Teachers can use this story to explore character growth, the importance of family traditions, and overcoming obstacles.
Literary Elements: Folklore, Symbolism
Themes to Explore: Fairness, Luck, Generosity
Tim O’Toole’s cleverness leads him to an unexpected reward when he encounters wee folk. This classic Irish folktale leads to discussions of symbolism and the role of luck, while also highlighting the value of generosity and fairness.
Literary Elements: Character Motivation, Theme
Themes to Explore: Mischief, Friendship, Humor
This story introduces a group of leprechauns who love causing mischief. Teachers can discuss the role of humor and the importance of understanding different characters’ motives.
Literary Elements: Non-fiction Elements, Text Structure
Themes to Explore: History, Celebration, Community
Gail Gibbons offers a straightforward exploration of St. Patrick’s Day’s history, customs, and traditions. Teachers can use this book to discuss non-fiction structure and how the author uses factual information to explain Irish culture and history.
Literary Elements: Repetition, Sequence of Events
Themes to Explore: Humor, Problem-Solving
A humorous twist on the classic “Old Lady” series, this story follows an old lady who swallows a series of objects related to St. Patrick’s Day. Teachers can discuss the repetitive structure and how the sequence of events adds to the humor.
Themes to Explore: Luck, Optimism, Adventure
Literary Elements: Character Traits, Making Connections
Themes to Explore: Forgiveness, Compassion, Redemption
This inspirational story shares how St. Patrick’s life reflects his deep compassion and commitment to forgiveness. This leads to discussions on the power of forgiveness, allowing students to make connections to their own lives.
Literary Elements: Fact vs. Fiction, Literary Research
Themes to Explore: Friendship, Adventure, Irish Folklore
Part of the popular Magic Treehouse series, these books follow Jack and Annie as they journey to Ireland and learn about Irish folklore. Use Leprechaun in Late Winter to explore Jack and Annie's fictional adventure. Then compare it to true facts in Leprechauns and Irish Folklore!
Have I missed any of your favorites? I’d love for you to share them with me over on my instagram @fifthintheforest!
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