15 Delightful Apple-Themed Books for Your Homeschool

There’s just something about apple season, isn’t there? Living here in upstate New York, I can’t help but look forward to the orchard every fall. I even worked at Cornell Orchards when I was younger and adored trying all the different varieties of apples. Now, as a homeschool mom, I get to share that same joy with my children. Every year we pile into the car for a trip to the orchard—filling baskets with apples, sipping cider slushies, and of course enjoying a warm cider doughnut (my favorite!).

If you’re planning a fall homeschool unit or just looking to add some seasonal charm to your family’s book basket, apple-themed living books are the perfect place to start. These stories bring the orchard right into your home, mixing rich illustrations with engaging storytelling. I’ve gathered 15 of the best apple-themed books for children—covering everything from how apples grow to fun orchard adventures, to thoughtful family stories.

Here’s a list you and your kids will love this fall:

1. How Do Apples Grow? by Betsy Maestro (Ages 4–8)

A gentle introduction to the apple life cycle, perfect for curious kids. With simple explanations and clear illustrations, it shows how apple blossoms turn into fruit. This is a wonderful blend of science and storytelling.

2. Apples, Apples Everywhere! Learning About Apple Harvests by Robin Koontz (Ages 5–8)

This nonfiction title follows the process of harvesting apples. Kids get a behind-the-scenes look at orchards, apple-picking machines, and all the work that goes into bringing apples from the trees to our tables.

3. Apples to Oregon by Deborah Hopkinson (Ages 5–9)

This humorous tall tale follows a pioneer family hauling apple trees (and other fruit trees) across the country. Witty and fun, it’s a fantastic read-aloud that highlights both apples and American history.

4. The Apple Pie That Papa Baked by Lauren Thompson (Ages 3–7)

This lyrical, cumulative story connects each part of creation to a delicious apple pie. With whimsical illustrations and a cozy feel, it’s the perfect fall bedtime story.

5. The Seasons of Arnold’s Apple Tree by Gail Gibbons (Ages 4–8)

Classic Gail Gibbons! This book follows Arnold and his special apple tree through the seasons, showing how it changes and what he can do with its apples. A beautiful way to teach both nature study and seasonal rhythms.

6. Johnny Appleseed by Reeve Lindbergh (Ages 5–9)

The classic tale of John Chapman, who planted apple trees across America. This retelling captures both the legend and the heart of the story in a way that inspires children.

7. Applesauce Weather by Helen Frost (Ages 8–12)

A touching novel in verse about family, memories, and the simple joys of making applesauce together. Older kids will especially appreciate its depth and beauty.

8. An Apple Orchard Riddle by Margaret McNamara (Ages 6–9)

Part of the “Mr. Tiffin’s Classroom” series, this story combines a fun orchard field trip with problem-solving. Kids join in to figure out which apple is best for baking. A clever way to mix learning and story.

9. Apple Farmer Annie by Monica Wellington (Ages 3–7)

This sweet book follows Annie, who grows apples, makes cider and applesauce, and sells them at the farmer’s market. The bright illustrations and step-by-step storytelling are wonderful for preschoolers.

10. The Apple Orchard Riddle by Margaret McNamara (Ages 6–9)

Kids will love joining a class on their apple orchard field trip as they learn a fun apple riddle. It combines science, problem-solving, and storytelling in a relatable way for early elementary ages.

11. The Apple Doll by Elisa Kleven (Ages 4–8)

A girl overcomes shyness by making a doll from an apple, which she takes to school. This book blends creativity, problem-solving, and a lovely craft idea—plus, it may just inspire your own apple-doll project at home.

12. The Apple Pip Princess by Jane Ray (Ages 5–9)

A gorgeously illustrated story about caring for the earth and the power of small beginnings. It has a fairy-tale feel while still fitting beautifully into an apple-themed unit.

13. A Day at the Apple Orchard by Megan Faulkner (Ages 4–7)

This nonfiction-style picture book is filled with bright photographs, showing everything from ladders in the orchard to big bins of harvested apples. A great choice for preparing kids for a real orchard visit.

14. Apples for Everyone by Jill Esbaum (Ages 4–8)

With crisp, real-life photography and simple text, this book captures the joy of apple season—from blossoms to pies. A beautiful addition for young learners.

15. The Apple Pie Tree by Zoe Hall (Ages 3–7)

This charming story follows two sisters as they watch their apple tree grow through the seasons until it’s finally ready for pie. Simple, sweet, and a favorite with younger kids.

Wrapping It Up

Apple season is such a gift—full of crisp air, cozy memories, and the beauty of God’s creation. Bringing apple-themed living books into your homeschool is a simple way to make fall learning feel rich and connected. From the science of how apples grow, to the legends of Johnny Appleseed, to the joy of family traditions, these stories will fill your home with warmth this autumn.

And if you’re ready to take your apple study even further, be sure to check out my Apple Activity Unit. It’s filled with hands-on activities, engaging printables, and even fun resources to use on your orchard field trip.

Fall learning has never been sweeter.