Board Books

Eliot, Hannah. Hello, Crayons! : And Other School Friends. illus. by Anna Clark & Daniel Clark. 16p. S. & S./Little Simon. Jun. 2024. Board $7.99. ISBN 9781665952507.
PreS–This bright, bubbly board book turns school supplies into friendly characters that want to join young readers on their journey to school. With simple three-line rhyming text per page, each school supply is introduced with its “role.” The bright rainbow-colored items have enthusiastic and fun expressions as they introduce themselves. “I’m your pencil. You’ll practice ABCs. Learning to read and write is just the best—you’ll see!” This book offers a great opportunity to be used in different ways at home and at school. It would shine as a read-aloud or as an independent read for children to point out letters, numbers, and colors. It could become a family favorite that would be easy to memorize. VERDICT A sweet and useful way to empower young readers to have ownership over the supplies that will help them reach their dreams.–Danielle Schwessinger

The Nervous Dragon: A Story About Overcoming Back-to-School Worries. illus. by Clare Victoria Wilson. 18p. (First Seasonal Stories). DK. Jun. 2024. Board $7.99. ISBN 9780744098402.
PreS-K–Blaze is nervous for his first day of school. His family encourages him by sharing the excitement of what school will bring, but Blaze has a big secret that he is worried others at school will learn about. As he prepares for school, his nerves are joined by “butterflies in his tummy” while he silently frets over others finding out. Lucky for Blaze, he is joined by a caring teacher and classmates that have their own worries. Together, the class learns that “school is where you learn how to do new things and some of those things might seem hard at first.” All of the bright and unique dinosaur characters pop off the pages, especially those with bright white backgrounds. The use of thought bubbles to convey Blaze’s nervousness will be a reminder to kids that their thoughts are also part of their “story.” Details, such as blushing cheeks, toy knights, and font changes make this board book a standout. VERDICT This strong SEL title is a perfect addition to any library with dinosaur lovers and children who are new to the school environment.–Danielle Schwessinger

Picture Books

Ahiyya, Vera. Getting Ready for Kindergarten. ISBN 9780593809983.
––––. Getting Ready for Preschool. ISBN 9780593809990.
ea vol: illus. by Debby Rahmalia. 24p. (Getting Ready). Random. Jun. 2024. Tr. $10.99.
PreS-K–In a series that celebrates the anticipatory excitement and affirms apprehensions about starting school, each of these titles follows a child approaching the first day of school. Dwayne (the preschooler) and Cynthia (the kindergartner) each lean on the support of their families as they prepare by purchasing supplies, discussing concerns, and sharing encouragement as the big day approaches. Featuring a diverse cast of characters both in school and out, the “Getting Ready” books cover common school-day activities, including circle time, recess, and riding the bus. The stories act as accessible overviews of what most U.S. children can expect when they enter a classroom for the first time. Dwayne’s day is relatively smooth; however, Cynthia encounters an emotional roadblock after misplacing her beloved elephant “backpack buddy.” Readers will appreciate that she has a successful day regardless, triumphing over disappointment. Better yet, a new friend finds her backpack buddy at the day’s end. While the topic of starting school is well-worn territory in children’s books, the stories and illustrations in this series are sweet enough to appeal to the very young and their grown-ups who are just as anxious, if not more so, about the school year as their child. A celebratory “I’m ready for Preschool” or ”I’m ready for Kindergarten” sign can be found at the end of each book, so readers can take first day of school pictures just like Dwayne and Cynthia do. VERDICT An adorable set of tales to ease jitters and empower small children to welcome new experiences with open arms.–Alexandra Quay

Bailey, Catherine. Goodnight School. illus. by Cori Doerrfeld. 40p. Union Square Kids & Co. Jun. 2024. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9781454948544.
PreS-Gr 1–A school building settles in for the night in this new bedtime staple. As the school day ends, the school itself needs to rest for a new day. The night guard comes to watch over the building and follows clues to locate a loose creature while checking in on the different parts of the building. Doerrfeld’s illustrations are bright and clever in design. Young readers will love finding the different faces created from the chairs, rugs, and everyday items found on every page. They will also enjoy the roaming class pet. This story is told in a gentle, calming rhyme that is sure to lull listeners into a good night’s sleep. VERDICT A lovely tale of all the wonderful parts of a school getting much-deserved rest for a fun, new day with students.–Lindsey Morrison  

Baker, Laura. Monsters at School. illus. by Nina Dzyvulska. 32p. (Monsters Everywhere: Bk. 3). Happy Yak. Jun. 2024. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9780711286610.
PreS-K–A colorful array of silly monsters spends a cheerful day at school in this rhyming picture book. Moments in a typical school day are described in short, simple phrases. Included are a few opportunities for vocabulary-building: a teacher looking “stern” and a student “trying not to smirk.” Full-bleed illustrations show the monsters learning, playing, making messes, cleaning up, and even dashing for the restroom with gritted teeth. Children will pore over the small details and moments of visual humor in each action-packed spread. The final page shows a doglike creature with one eye and a green tongue and asks, “Can you find Dog Monster in every scene?” which will have children asking for a second reading so they can participate in the Where’s Waldo–style search. Each page is a stand-alone snapshot of a moment in the school day; when put together they will not give children a clear picture of what to expect in a classroom setting. Those seeking titles to ease first-day anxiety will be better served by other books in this crowded genre, but this is a fun choice for those who are already familiar with a school environment. VERDICT A lively read-aloud for preschool classrooms or home, with detailed illustrations that beg for close examination.–Amy Reimann

Campbell, Jamel C. Olu’s Teacher: A Story About Starting Preschool. illus. by Lydia Mba. 32p. Candlewick. May 2024. Tr $17.99. ISBN 9781536231465.
PreS–Olu conquers the first day of preschool with the help of his parents, teacher, and friends. At first, Olu, a young Black boy, is worried about preschool because his teacher might be a scary monster. Mom reassures Olu that his teacher is there to help them, but Olu is still not sure until they reach the school. Olu meets his new teacher, Jay; then meets his diverse group of classmates; and decides to be brave as Mom leaves. Preschool is more fun than Olu ever imagined and goes by in the blink of an eye! Representation is a major theme in this story, as Olu realizes he feels comfortable with his new teacher because “He looks like me!” Illustrations highlight the fun of the preschool day along with the rare representation of Black men in early childhood education. An author’s note “for grown-ups” is included. VERDICT An excellent choice for young readers to help ease the transition into preschool.–Lindsey Morrison 

Cobden, Rose. Welcome to Unicorn School. illus. by Loretta Schauer. 32p. Ladybird. Jun. 2024. Tr $14.99. ISBN 9780241674437.
PreS-Gr 1–This rhyming story about a little blue unicorn, Rocky, who has a successful first day at school will be reassuring to parents and children. In his excitement for the beginning of school, Rocky rises before his mom and brother. He makes his lunch and dresses himself without any help, but with a lot of mess! After this whirlwind of activity, Rocky confesses to his mom that he feels “a little stressed.” She assures him that he can overcome any challenges and that her love for him, as evidenced by the heart sewn on his sweater, will also help him face his self-doubt. With these reassurances, Rocky rushes into the classroom and works furiously on his art project. However, when Rocky accidentally rips his artwork, he wonders if he will be asked to leave school. At that moment, he makes his first friend, a shy unicorn girl named Sparks who is feeling insecure and turns to Rocky for support. Together, they navigate the remaining activities with smiles, and Rocky ends the day by giving Sparks a heart as a reminder of his support. Vivid, childlike illustrations depict anthropomorphized unicorns with big heads whose coats come in a variety of colors. The unicorns live in little storybook cottages, either perched in trees or on the ground. VERDICT A sweet reminder that although school might initially appear to be challenging, with the support of parents and friends, learning will be fun.–Sally A. James

McKinnon, Bob. America’s Dreaming. illus. by Thai My Phuong. 48p. Penguin Workshop. Jun. 2024. Tr $19.99. ISBN 9780593658796.
Gr 1-5–On the first day of school, America looks for a solo seat in the classroom. During introductions, America freezes up and isn’t able to share something they love to dream about. At recess, America stays inside with a book. The teacher shows America the Welcome Wagon, laden “with books to remind us that all kinds of people had trouble being accepted.” America borrows books about Amelia Earhart, Sojourner Truth, and Martin Luther King, Jr. Reading their stories that night gives America the courage to share their dreams with the class the next day. Through America’s journey, readers are reminded of the importance of understanding and respecting different preferences in social interaction. The narrative skillfully explores America’s gradual comfort, from choosing to stay inside to read to eventually raising their hand in class. The book portrays a diverse classroom environment, and Phuong captures small details, like the Welcome Wagon sign on the cart of books, that add depth and authenticity to the setting. This attention to detail enhances the overall reading experience and invites readers to appreciate the beauty of inclusivity. This needed story celebrates individuality and is a reminder that every child moves at their own their own pace, and that it’s okay to find happiness in solitude. Heartwarming and thought-provoking, this book encourages readers to embrace their unique qualities and appreciate the diversity of the world around them. Back matter includes an author’s note, short bibliographies of the famous individuals mentioned in the story, and suggestions of titles for those wanting to create their own book collection. VERDICT A valuable addition to any library or classroom collection.–Peggy Henderson Murphy

Reynoso-Morris, Alyssa. Gloriana, Presente: A First Day of School Story. illus. by Doris M. Rodríguez-Graber. 32p. Little, Brown/Christy Ottaviano. Jul. 2024. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9780316366618.
K-Gr 3–On Gloriana’s first day of school, Abuela tells her a story about their family’s home in the Dominican Republic to calm her nerves. Gloriana dances to imaginary bachata music as they walk toward the school. They pretend to ride the waves, and Gloriana’s nervous butterflies flee. But the nerves return at school as she struggles to understand the words she hears. She retrieves those memories of the Dominican Republic to help her respond, but it doesn’t always work—she misses out on a chance for friends and doesn’t answer a question in class that she knows the right answer to. As she tells Abuela about her day, her grandmother empathizes with her difficulties. A few weeks later, Gloriana pulls up all her memories to fuel her courage as she tells her class about her home and family. The story blends English and Spanish text together just as a bilingual student might, but the Spanish isn’t always easy to figure out just from context. This is where the illustrations step in with their blend of present happenings and island memories. The gorgeous acrylic illustrations jump off the page, highlighting the power of memories to take the place of fear. VERDICT A lovely back-to-school story that a growing number of children will find relatable and that will encourage empathy in others.–Heidi Grange

Sanders, Rob. We Are a Class. illus. by Hannah Abbo. 32p. Beaming Bks. Jul. 2024. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9781506489216.
PreS-Gr 2–Imagine a classroom where everyone is accepted. This book depicts what every student should experience while growing and learning. The religion you practice or the color of your skin does not matter. No one will mind if you arrive at school in a car, bus, or wheelchair. Everyone will be welcome in this place and feel safe. With the repeated refrain “We are a class,” Sanders describes an environment where students can be anything they want to be: a scientist, rock star, or even a dreamer. It is a class of creative thinkers and achievement earners. All in this group are challenge-facers. They listen to and support each other and offer comfort to those who need it. No one is criticized or belittled. It is a wonderful place for all, especially the children. The rhyming text is light and fun to hear. Illustrations are colorful, but simple; there is enough to engage the reader, but not too much to overwhelm them. The pictures show a fun and caring atmosphere, where everyone is busy working with and helping each other. The main point is that everyone—including the teachers—is different. Children will see family, friends, and themselves as part of the story. This book can be shared with parents and children, teachers and students, librarians and young ones yearning to hear a story. VERDICT A fitting book to set a positive tone for the first day of school, and a fabulous story for homes, classrooms, and libraries.–Barbara Spiri

Sobel, June. First Day, Hooray! illus. by Nabila Adani. 40p. HarperCollins/Clarion. Jun. 2024. Tr $19.99. ISBN 9780063265783.
PreS-Gr 2–A diverse group of children experience the wide variety of emotions the first day of school can bring. Using rhyming couplets, the author highlights some of the things that children might experience on their first day. Happy, sad, angry, worried, excited, and brave, along with a few other emotions, are briefly described, along with simple ways to respond to them. The stunning, colorful illustrations show children of various backgrounds and ethnicities going through a day of school. Emotions are highlighted in both text and pictures using various colors. Worried is blue, anger is red, curiosity is orange, and so on. The illustrations clearly depict the emotions through facial expressions, as well as through dreamlike colors and images surrounding the child the story is focusing on. Various animals and colors represent each emotion; for example, the child who is mad is surrounded by lightning bolts, exploding color, and a roaring tiger. VERDICT A first purchase. This is a great title for sharing with children to encourage vocalization of feelings, especially those related to the experience of going to school for the first time.–Heidi Grange

Stott, Apryl. Ruby’s Tools for Making Friends. illus. by author. 40p. S & S/Paula Wiseman. Jun. 2024. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9781665921640.
PreS-Gr 2–A wonderful lesson in adaptability, patience, and taking time to cultivate friendships. Ruby the fox is apprehensive about her first day at a new school, but she finds solace in bringing her tools along with her. These tools become coping mechanisms when Ruby is anxious; her tape measure, for example, reminds her to “count my breaths if I feel overwhelmed.” The class is excited when their teacher announces a science project to build the best egg holder for a dropping competition. As she gets together with her group to formulate a plan, Ruby becomes increasingly frustrated as her ideas are not being heard. Then, she uses her safety goggles to “try to see things in a new way.” She will show the group her idea. Building the project does not come easily to Ruby, but with the help of shy pal Alex, communication with the rest of the group becomes possible, and their teamwork shines. Little lovers of science who may also struggle to communicate will find Ruby relatable. Everyone has different ways of coping with stress and anxiety, and Stott illustrates this beautifully through words and pictures. VERDICT A great addition to picture book collections.–Kerra Mazzariello 

Tarpley, Natasha Anastasia. Keyana Loves School. illus. by Charnelle Pinkney Barlow. 40p. Little, Brown. Jul. 2024. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9780316068307.
K-Gr 2–Second grader Keyana is full of big ideas, so when her teacher announces it’s time to celebrate their school’s 100th anniversary, she has the perfect idea for her class’s project. She and her classmates work hard on the project, and then it’s up to Keyana to present it during the schoolwide assembly. Keyana isn’t sure about this—it’s a little scary to talk in front of so many people. But with help from family and classmates, Keyana shines. Diverse secondary characters and lively cartoon-style illustrations support this goal-oriented story. Keyana’s supportive family and school staff help her be the best she can be. While the story might feel slightly didactic, it is a still a strong narrative about goal-setting, finding support where you need it, and finding your voice. VERDICT A good choice for classrooms where projects are in the works.–Melisa Bailey

Thompkins-Bigelow, Jamilah. Sister Friend. illus. by Shahrzad Maydani. 40p. Abrams. May 2024. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9781419767210.
K-Gr 2–A touching picture book of cultural connection, embracing differences, and finding that very special friend. Little Ameena feels invisible at her new school—always settling for “play-by-herself” days—as she notices how her brownness stands out against the fair complexions of her classmates, and she is repeatedly excluded. She feels this way for months, until a new student named Sundus joins the class in her beautiful, vibrant hijab. As Sundus settles into her new surroundings, Ameena is excited to connect with a fellow student of color, but finds this increasingly difficult as Sundus’s uneasiness hinders interactions with others. But, with the right words, a sisterhood is born: “Assalamu Alaikum, Sister. Welcome.” Maydani’s illustrations pair perfectly with Bigelow’s story, as whimsical pinks, oranges, and greens dance across the pages where Ameena and Sundus are at the forefront, while darker colors depict the girls’ classmates. VERDICT A wonderful addition to any elementary setting, as well as the perfect partner read with a special friend.–Kerra Mazzariello

Wodarz, Zoe. Archie & Pip First Day of School. illus. by Mari Richards. 36p. Cottage Door Pr. Jun. 2024. Tr $7.99. ISBN 9781646389919; pap. $4.99. ISBN 9798890191007.
PreS-Gr 1–Summer is ending, and siblings Archie, a pig, and Pip, a platypus, are about to start school. Archie is going into kindergarten, and Pip is headed to first grade. They’re both nervous. Archie is worried about being in a classroom all day, while Pip is concerned his brother won’t need him once he starts school. But for both of them, the first day of school turns out to be one of exciting new friends and fun. Colorful illustrations create a cast of adorable animal characters in this book, which is perfect for a child or siblings heading to school for the first time. VERDICT A solid addition to any library’s school-themed picture book collection.–Shana Shea

Early Readers

Carbone, Courtney. This Makes Me Anxious: First Day of School. illus. by Jennifer Amaris. 32p. (Step into Reading). Random. Jun. 2024. Tr $14.99. ISBN 9780593711316; pap. $5.99. ISBN 9780593711309.
K-Gr 2–A child feels anxious as her first day of school approaches. Using simple vocabulary and short sentences, she describes her feelings. When her mom takes her shopping, she finds the choices overwhelming and declares, “I feel small in such a big store.” That night, tired but unable to sleep, she wishes she could “hide in a shell like my hermit crab.” In the morning, her stomach hurts, and she starts to cry when it is time for first day photos. Digital illustrations expand on the text and show the child’s increasing distress as her shoulders hunch and tears well in her eyes. Mom and Grandma Gigi assure her that her feelings are normal and suggest that it helps to talk about them. At school, her friendly teacher welcomes and guides her to her seat. When the teacher asks whether anyone feels nervous, everyone raises their hand. As the class practices deep breathing, the girl begins to feels relaxed and hopeful. With illustrations that add details and clues to help decode the text, this story is crafted with the needs of emergent readers in mind. VERDICT This book validates feelings that many children experience and reassures them with simple solutions.–Marilyn Taniguchi

Dennis, Elizabeth. School’s in Session: Ready-to-Read Level 2. illus. by Clarice Elliott. 32p. (Kids Around the World). S. & S./Simon Spotlight. Aug. 2024. Tr $17.99. ISBN 9781665957212; pap. $4.99. ISBN 9781665957205.
Gr 1-3–This early reader is an excellent peek at the lives of schoolchildren across the globe. The book opens with a glossary and a note stating that what follows are “just some examples of what school is like for kids around the world,” a good way to ensure that no culture is depicted as a monolith. Three short chapters cover everything from how kids in various locations get to school to which ones have the shortest school day. Dennis strikes an appealing tone, with her text navigating a delicate line between informative and gently amusing. No matter how unusual the fact being shared—for example, children in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula riding snowmobiles to school—there is always a sense of respect. Illustrations are detailed, realistic, and friendly, with lots of bright colors and open space. Given the subject matter, children of many backgrounds are presented. This is on the longer side for an early reader, and breaking it into small chapters gives it an approachable structure. A section at the end prompts readers to imagine and draw their ideal school. This fun exercise takes children beyond the pages of the book and is also a great way to touch upon some early literacy practices. VERDICT A respectful, nicely paced early reader, and a natural fit for elementary school libraries.–Kate Newcombe