I haven't really spent
a great deal of time
outside of the pouch,
to be quite honest, so
this is going to be new
for me. Also, I'm cold
and I miss my mom.
Maybe next year
I'll be ready."
So says a young joey, waiting at the bus stop while holding tightly to a family picture. The facing image shows that same joey securely situated back in the pouch of a giant mama kangaroo created in the school sandbox. Waiting for next September, perhaps!?!
Each critter expresses jitters about the upcoming school year, and how each will adapt. The critters presented on opening two-page spreads express concern over what might be their greatest challenge to first day attendance. A sloth wonders about getting there on time, while a snake is concerned about how to wear a backpack. When it doesn't work, concern turns to how to be sure supplies will be there when needed. There follows a mouse, the joey, a parrot, a mole, a bear, and a rabbit.
They continue to express their concerns at the bus stop, on the bus, and once they are in the classroom ... all with loud SIGHs. The door swings open and it rolls a spiral ball. What can it be? They are soon to find out.
"Oh. Yes. Ahem.
Good morning,
everybody. I'm
your, uh, teacher,
Mr. Sherwood."
Mole, who can't see very well as you know, is amazed to 'see' a talking rock. Mr. Sherwood responds with an admission. He's nervous! He says he has many reasons to be. Upon considering his announcement, each of his new students offers to provide what help they can. In doing so, they create an atmosphere of trust and friendliness - exactly what is needed as the new school year begins.
Done with 'digital magic', Liz Climo captures the angst and helpfulness of these critters. The hand-lettered speech balloons offer a terrific opportunity for shared reading, with different students taking on a role.
Poor sloth! First day doesn't go so well. Ingenuity, thanks to snake, offers a solution for their second, much-anticipated day at school.
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