Sustainability · Grow, Cook, Eat
Free November Community Read-Alouds & Activities
Rally to Read’s November theme is Sustainability, and this month, we’re following food from seed to table. These stories explore how plants grow, how food gets harvested, and the people and processes that bring meals to our plates. This month features two free author read-aloud videos for elementary classrooms and homes, plus a printable activity packet with book lists, farm-to-table activities, and discussion starters for Pre-K through 5th grade. All free from Reading Is Fundamental. To preview all monthly themes and read-alouds, download our free calendar.
November Read-Alouds: Coming November 1
This month’s two author read-alouds are coming soon.
Growing Together
Written by Ruth Spiro, Illustrated by Paola Escobar
Grades: PK – 3rd
Young readers are invited to discover how plants, people, and communities thrive when they care for one another. With an inspiring message of curiosity and teamwork, the story celebrates sustainability by showing how nurturing the natural world helps create a healthier future for everyone.
The Farm Next Door
Written by Kelly Rice Schmitt, Illustrated by Charles Santoso
Grades: PK – 3rd
This heartwarming story celebrates the connections between neighbors, the land, and the food we grow together. Through its engaging story, young readers discover how caring for farms, nature, and one another helps build a more sustainable future for our communities.
Free Printable Classroom Resources: Coming November 1
November Activity Packet: Sustainability
Grow, Cook, Eat. This month’s activity packet includes a recommended book list, farm-to-table classroom and at-home activities, plant life cycle discussion guides, puzzles and games, and featured book activity guides. Free to download and print for classroom and home use.
How to Use These Resources in Your Classroom
These free sustainability read-aloud activities connect naturally to science units on plant life cycles, nutrition lessons, and broader discussions about environmental responsibility. Start with the videos to spark curiosity about where food comes from, then extend the learning with the printable activity packet. Both books work well alongside lessons on farming, ecosystems, and sustainable choices.
Free Reading Resources for Every Grade
Looking for more ways to support reading engagement? Our free Resources page has everything you need, printable bookmarks, a classroom poster, a reading log, reading certificates, and book review activities. Spanish-language versions are available for select resources. Educator and family webinars are also available to help you get the most out of Rally to Read all season long. All resources are designed for Pre-K, kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade, with activities that work across multiple reading levels.