Back to School

I’m never sure about who is happier when school starts? Is it the parents, children or teachers? I sometimes think it is the book publishers because they get to publish all kinds of new back to school books. This is some of this year’s new crop.

"Tony Baloney School Rules" by Pam Munoz Ryan- Tony, a macaroni penguin, is excited about his first day of school. However, Dandelion, his stuffed bird is nervous about finding the bathroom and following rules. Tony meets his teacher Mrs. Gamboney and finds out about the classroom rules. However, Tony has a little difficulty with the classroom rules; he calls out in class, pushes a friend, and runs to his seat. Can Tony follow the classroom rules or will Mrs. Gamboney need to change some of the rules?

"Charlie Goes to School" by Ree Drummond- Life on a working ranch can be busy. Mama is busy home schooling the kids. After watching the children doing their class work Charlie the Ranch Dog decides to start his own school for the other animal residents of the farm. Teaching is hard work. Is Charlie up to the challenge?

 

"Peppa Pig and the Busy Day at School" – Based on the television series Peppa Pig. During the morning at school the animal class counts, recites the alphabet, plays store, paints, has lunch and recess, and then shares their special talents. Peppa Pig was unsure about which of her talents she would share; jumping rope, singing or dancing. However, when it was her turn all of those talents had been done by her classmates. Does Peppa Pig have another other talent to share with her class?

 

"Every Cowgirl Goes to School" by Rebecca Janni- Aspiring cowgirl Nellie Sue is excited about the first day of school. But when she gets on the school bus her BBF Anna is sitting next to a new girl, Maya. As the day progresses misunderstandings between Nellie Sue, Anna and Maya continue until Nellie Sue runs out the classroom. Will Nellie Sue, Anna and Maya be able to become friends?

 

"My New Teacher and Me!" by Al Yankovic- Billy’s morning prior to the first day of school was very busy. He was digging to China and found a dinosaur skull. Billy did not want to be late so he came to school covered with dirt. His new teacher reprimands him for the dirt and his “highly unlikely” stories. Billy continues to spin tall tales including two-headed cows, a grandfather who walked on the moon, and a fantastical vacation island. Will Billy spend this whole school year in the principal’s office or will he and his new teacher get along?

Other new books about going to school are; "Sea Monster and the Bossy Fish" by Kate Messner, "You’re Wearing that to School?!" by Lynne Plourde, "Diary of a Worm Teacher’s Pet" by Lori Haskins Houran,"Lulu Goes to Witch School" by Jane O’Connor, and "Splat and the Cool School Trip" by Rob Scotton.

 --Robbin O., Headquarters