Are you looking for some Dragonfly children’s books to use in your classroom that include literacy extension ideas? This list may be just what you are looking for!
Dragonflies are a wonderful theme and are filled with some exciting literacy experiences to explore. You may have had the opportunity to read some of these Dragonfly books already, but hopefully some will be a new adventure for you and your kids. Whether you like or dislike Dragonfly, try these engaging books and some of the extension activities suggested.
1. Oh, My! It’s a Dragonfly! by Carla Burke
A tiny egg at the bottom of the pond is about to hatch. What is hidden inside? Embark on a captivating journey beneath the shimmering surface of a pond that reveals the remarkable life cycle of a dragonfly. From a tiny egg nestled at the bottom of the pond to the graceful creature that soars through the air, this action-packed adventure immerses young readers in the wondrous world of these fascinating insects.
Follow along as the story unfolds, exploring the hidden secrets of the dragonfly’s transformation from egg to nymph to adult. It’s an educational exploration that sparks curiosity and encourages young minds to explore the world around them. Alongside the captivating narrative, young readers will uncover additional dragonfly facts, inviting them to become budding scientists and deepen their understanding of these extraordinary creatures.
Literacy Extensions:
- Dragonfly Literature List
- Classroom Booklet: “All About Dragonflies”
- Dragonfly Counting
- My Dragonfly Story: Student Worksheets
2. Are You a Dragonfly? by Judy Allen
This colorful first nature book gives children inside a look at how they would experience life if they were a dragonfly. Ideal for reading aloud or as a first reader, the detailed, warm illustrations bring this familiar creature to life in a truly memorable way.
Children who love dragonflies will learn all about their life cycles and behavior, and the witty, interactive text beginning with the question will encourage readers to explore the similarities and differences between themselves and these fascinating animals.
Literacy Extensions:
- “If I Were a Dragonfly” Classroom Book
- “Dragonfly Counting” Student Booklet
- Venn Diagram Comparing Dragonfly vs Fly
- Dragonfly Build a Two Addend Number Sentence
3. Life Cycles Dragonflies by Robin Nelson
A basic overview of the life cycle of a dragonfly. Get up close and personal with dragonfly nymphs as they undergo their incredible transformation from water-dwelling creatures to elegant fliers.
Discover how dragonflies use their unique compound eyes to spot prey, navigate, and communicate with other dragonflies in their own special language.
Literacy Extensions:
- Classroom Book: “All About Dragonflies”
- Dragonfly Story Parts Worksheet
- Dragonfly Shapes Art Project
- Dragonfly Number & Ten Frame Match Game
4. How to Ride a Dragonfly by Kitty Donohoe
Like a laugh-out-loud spin on Thumbelina, this whimsical, beautifully illustrated picture book stars an adventurous little girl who shrinks down to the size of a bug and takes a tour of the swamp on a dragonfly’s back.
Have you ever wanted to ride a dragonfly? Well, there’s one problem… You’re too big! But if you follow some simple steps, you’ll be sure to have a fantastic journey. With a delightfully funny text by an elementary school teacher and deliciously playful artwork by a beloved illustrator, here is the perfect picture book for any child in search of adventure!
Literacy Extensions:
- Dragonfly Literature List
- Dragonfly Story Parts: Student Worksheet
- Dragonfly Roll It! Read It! Short Vowels
- Coffee Filter Dragonfly Art Project
5. The Story of the Dragonfly by Debbie Sorrells
This is the story of an amazing little girl who grew up into an incredible woman who dedicated her life to helping others. After a tragedy, a dragonfly appeared to remind others of her presence, and to support and encourage them.
Literacy Extensions:
- “All About Dragonflies” Classroom Book
- Dragonfly Story Sequencing Student Worksheet
- Dragonfly Shape Art Project
- Dragonfly Add & Subtract Match Game
6. Dragonflies by Hope Aicher
Discover the enchanting world of dragonflies in this captivating nonfiction children’s book with full-color photographs and a trove of fun and interesting facts, young nature enthusiasts will be whisked away on a thrilling adventure.
Journey through the air alongside these incredible creatures as you learn about their extraordinary lives. Delve into the dragonfly’s dazzling array of colors, delicate wings, and remarkable hunting skills. Did you know that dragonflies have been around for over 300 million years, long before the dinosaurs? Fascinating!
Packed with intriguing facts and vivid photographs, this book will captivate young readers and ignite their curiosity about these magical insects. This engaging book is the perfect companion for nature walks, trips to the park, or cozy afternoons curled up at home.
Literacy Extensions:
- Dragonfly Word Bank
- Dragonfly Literature Retelling Organizer Student Page
- Dragonfly Make a Short Vowel Word Game
- Dragonfly Roll & Cover Math Games
7. If I Were a Dragonfly by Charlee B. Finn
Dragonflies are really cool creatures. They can hover and do flips in the air. They can even fly backward. Some dragonflies can fly up to 20 miles per hour!
In this book, readers will learn about a day in the life of a dragonfly from the perspective of one these amazing insects. Low-level text is perfect for young readers. Reading comprehension skills are promoted with a special Words to Know section. Colorful illustrations will keep readers of all ages turning the pages.
Literacy Extensions:
- Student Booklets: “All About Dragonflies”
- Dragonfly Make a Short Vowel Word
- Dragonfly Sight Word Games
- Dragonfly Build 2 Addend Addition Number Sentences
8. The Dragonfly Story by Kelly Owen
This beautifully illustrated story is an adaptation of the fable of the transformation of the dragonfly. This fable has been long used to explain death and the hope of heaven. This version opens with two siblings talking about missing their sister and wondering where she had gone now that she had died. The mother then tells them the dragonfly story.
Using the experience of the death of her eldest child, has retold the fable in simple terms to encourage children and families to talk about death and what happens when we die. The book does not shy away from the subject of death, but aims to explain it in a real and loving way.
Literacy Extensions:
- “To Catch a Dragonfly” Classroom Book
- Dragonfly Letter & Sound Match Game
- Dragonfly Build a Word
- Dragonfly Numbers & Ten Frames Math Game
Finally, there are so many Dragonfly children’s books you can choose from. From fiction to nonfiction, the list of Dragonfly books is endless. Remember to pick the books that best fit the needs of your students or children and support your learning activities. Happy Reading!
Find some more literacy and extension activities in my store, The Teaching Scene by Maureen.
To read more blog topics check out my blog, “A Guide to Using Literature-Based Units of Study.”
