Community · Our Amazing Earth
Free October Community Read-Alouds & Activities
Rally to Read kicks off this year in October with Community and this season, we're exploring what it means to share our Earth. From sweeping landscapes to local ecosystems, these stories connect kids to the planet and to each other. This month features two free author read-aloud videos for elementary classrooms and families, plus a printable activity packet with book lists, discussion guides, and hands-on activities for Pre-K to 5th grade. Everything is free, from Reading Is Fundamental. To preview all monthly themes and read-alouds, download our free calendar.
October Read-Alouds: Watch Free
This month's two author read-alouds are live and ready to watch.
A Room With a View
Written by Joanna Ho, Illustrated by Thaís Mesquita
Grades: PK – 3rd
This heartwarming and humorous story is about a reluctant camper who discovers that outdoor adventures can lead to unforgettable family memories. Filled with laughter, nature, and love, this charming book reminds readers that the best views are the ones shared with the people we love most. This is a perfect read-aloud to share the theme of community and nature.
How to Hatch
Written by Sara Holly Ackerman, Illustrated by Galia Bernstein
Grades: PK – 2nd
This delightful nonfiction story follows a tiny hatchling as it discovers the exciting first steps of life with curiosity, courage, and determination. With charming illustrations and gentle humor, this heartwarming book celebrates growth, resilience, and the joy of trying something new. Walk your class through every step of the hatching process and celebrate nature and community.
Free Printable Classroom Resources: October
October Activity Packet: Community
Our amazing Earth. This month's activity packet includes a recommended book list, Earth-themed classroom and at-home activities, book 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 community read-aloud activities are a natural fit for science units on Earth systems, social studies lessons on geography, and social-emotional learning around belonging and shared responsibility. Watch the videos together as a class to introduce the theme, then use the activity packet for small group discussion, independent work, or take-home reading. Both books work well for lessons on ecosystems, global communities, and environmental stewardship.
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.