Here in Arizona, school is officially back in session. And for those still enjoying the last weeks of summer, it’s just around the bend. There’s no better way to catch that back-to-school spirit than reading new (and not-so-new) picture books.
First up, SOUNDS LIKE SCHOOL SPIRIT by Meg Fleming, illustrated by Lucy Ruth Cummins (Dial Books, 2021)
This book captures all the joy of a new school year. It’s especially perfect *this* year, as so many are returning to full-time, in-person learning after months of virtual and hybrid models.
Fleming’s rollicking rhythm (“We say SCHOOL, you say SPIRIT… SCHOOL! SPIRIT! SCHOOL! SPIRIT!”) and Cummins’ vibrant illustrations capture the enthusiasm and energy of the classroom and school community. You won’t get past the first page without noticing kids joining in on this lively call and response text.
CLICK TO ENLARGE © illustration by Shahrzad Maydani
BIRD BOY by Matthew Burgess, illustrated by Shahrzad Maydani (Knopf Books for Young Readers, 2021)
“Nico was nervous
walking the path to class
………alone,
with a backpack full of stones.
………(That’s how it felt.)
Nico was new,
so when everyone knew what to do
and where to go, he was left,
well, a little
……………………lost.”
This tender story speaks of a young boy who doesn’t quite fit in. The reader immediately worries. What will happen to Nico?
“But there were other things to do.” Nico falls easily into some of his favorite activities: “Watching the insects crossing a crack in the blacktop…”, sitting in the grass, sun on his face. Soon, one bird then another come fluttering, chirping, swooping by.
The kids have a name for Nico. Bird Boy. He knows they are making fun of him, and it hurts his feelings. But he thinks about the name and – to his surprise – smiles. The name fits!
Soon enough Nico makes one, then two friends.
This gentle story, with soft, dreamy illustrations by Maydani, is a must-read.
CLICK TO ENLARGE © illustration by Vanessa Brantley-Newton
THE KING OF KINDERGARTEN by Derrick Barnes, illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton (Nancy Paulson Books, 2019)
First day of kindergarten? No worries! “Mommy says that today, you are going to be the King of Kindergarten!”
The kids in class have been waiting all summer to meet their new classmates, and the main character is just as excited to meet them! They’ll be learning about shapes, numbers, classroom rules and more. “It sounds like a lot, but you’re the King of Kindergarten. Piece. Of. Cake.”
With bright, joyful illustrations by Brantley-Newton, this positive, affirming look at the first day of school is sure to please even the most reluctant Kindergartener.
CLICK TO ENLARGE © illustration by Liz Climo
FIRST DAY CRITTER JITTERS by Jory John, illustrated by Liz Climo (Dial Books, 2020)
If a child is feeling nervous about school, experiencing the first day through the lens of humor and endearing animals can provide just enough distance to work through the fear.
Parrot is nervous about its tendency to repeat what others say. Without arms, how will snake carry its backpack? Baby joey worries about missing mom. And sloth? “…have you seen how slowly sloths walk?” Even the “talking rock” is nervous which, as it turns out, is actually Mr. Sherwood, their armadillo teacher!
Despite all the fears, this crew of creatures make it through the first day with flying colors. Now they’re ready for day two! And there’s even a plan for sloth, who arrived just as the first day was ending. He’ll hitch a ride with snake, and sloth will handle the troublesome backpack.
Climo’s trademark whimsical illustrations paired with Jory John’s humor make this book a win-win for animals and children!
