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Thursday, September 1, 2022

The Queen of Kindergarten, written by Derrick Barnes and illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton. Penguin Random House, 2022. $23.99 ages 4 and up

 


"It'll be my job to open up the 
blinds and let the sunlight in 
the room every morning. 
Doesn't that sound good? 
Plus, brightening up a room 
is the very first thing that 
Momma said us queens do, 
so I sure will.
"

This is the week that leads to the first day of school for kids here. The summer has flown by, and their excitement over being together with friends and teachers will be growing. Settling into routines brings structure after long summer days. 

This book is a companion to The King of Kindergarten (2019). MJ Malone is more than ready for school - and the world itself. Her brother is equally excited, as is her family. She is quick to get dressed, and knows she looks pretty good! But there is one more thing. 

Momma shares the tiara that she wore on her first day of kindergarten, and gives MJ her new title. She is now the Queen of Kindergarten. She also gives three pieces of advice: 

"First, us queens brighten up 
every room we enter. Second, 
us queens are caring and kind. 

And third, the good ones 
are always helpful to 
others," she says.
"

MJ takes that advice to heart and spends her day being the best version of herself she can be. She works hard; she takes on her monitor's job with joy and pizzazz; she encourages a new friend to have a better day; and, she helps out at every turn. Lunch is a happy, social time while recess brings new learning. The rest of her classes - art, music, and gym - add pep to her step. Finally, the children share a snack while listening to soft music. It is quite the first day, and MJ returns home ready for tomorrow.

Glowing, energetic artwork fills the pages with charming characters and reassuring scenes for any children wondering and worrying about what the first day of kindergarten might bring. Lovely!                                                                                       


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