My Favorite Low-Prep Literacy Hack (Especially for Sub Plans!)

Ever feel like your read-aloud just needs something after it’s over?

You know the moment: your class loved the story, everyone’s engaged, and then… crickets. Do we write? Do we draw? Do we move on?

Enter one of my favorite grab-and-go solutions:

Book It: Retell It, Write It, Make It!

These printable mini-packets are the perfect follow-up to your favorite picture books—especially the ones featured on Storyline Online (Yes, the free site where celebrities read books aloud 🙌).

They’re a total lifesaver when:

• You need something quick but meaningful

• You're prepping for a sub

• You want students to practice literacy skills without extra planning

💡 What’s Inside Each Packet?

Each Book It! packet includes:
📚 A Retell-It page (oral and written)

 

✏️ A Write-It prompt (A story-connected writing activity

🔤 A Make-a-Word phonics page – built around a key word or theme from the book

They’re print-and-go and student-friendly for Grades 1-3!

📚 Which Books Are Included?

So far, the Storyline Online Growing Bundle includes 16 titles:

• Henry Holton Takes the Ice
• The Empty Pot
• Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch
• Zombies Don’t Eat Veggies!
• When a Dragon Moves In
• Trombone Shorty
• Strega Nona
• A Bad Case of Stripes
• Maddie’s Fridge
• I’m Not Scared, You’re Scared!
• Enemy Pie
• Chester’s Way
• Jabari Jumps
• Arnie the Doughnut
• Stellaluna
• The Hula-Hoopin’ Queen

New packets are being added every week!

Try One for Free!

Want to see what they’re like?
Grab the free Book It for The Sandwich Swap
It’s perfect for character-building and discussion, too.

💰 Snag the Growing Bundle Now!

The Growing Bundle currently includes 16 packets (a $32 value)
But right now it’s only $12 — just 75¢ each!
And every new addition is included automatically. 🎉

➡️ Storyline Online Book It Growing Bundle

Whether you’re lesson planning at midnight (we’ve all been there) or prepping an emergency sub tub, Book It! packets have your back. Easy, engaging, and done for you. ✅

Let me know if you try one—I love hearing which books your kids connect with most!

✏️ Teacher tip:

Make a few copies, pop them into a plastic sleeve, and store them with a QR code to the read-aloud video. Instant sub plan or early finisher bin!