We Love You, Teacher

PreS-Gr 3–The illustrations are the star of this charming story reminiscent of Philip and Erin Stead’s 2010 A Sick Day for Amos McGee in both style and theme. Ferrero’s delicate, detailed pencil-and-ink drawings complement a simple, sparse text that expresses Miss Gazelle’s gentle warmth and affection for her students and their unique talents. The story begins with Skunk’s reluctance to get out of bed; through the window readers see Duck calling “Wake up, sleepyhead! You’ll be late!” as well as Rabbit enjoying one last hug with Mom while Squirrel, Frog, and Bear Cub happily head to class. There, Miss Gazelle greets each of her charges (as Skunk sprints in, a tad late), and the several spreads that follow simply showcase a day at school among thoroughly contented teacher and students. One morning, when Miss Gazelle is not there, the worried students head to her home with cards and gifts and, most importantly, to read her a story. The final image mirrors an earlier spread of story time at school—this time with the students reading to her: “Her students are the ones reading to her now, and she is very proud of them.” The glowing tones of the color palette, clever use of windows as framing, and the intricacy of the drawings work with the text to bring this satisfying circular tale to fruition as it celebrates the unique bonds found classrooms.