Reviews by Andrea Dochney of the Oakland Public Library.
Nina Nandu’s Nervous Noggins
By: Barbara DeRubertis
The latest edition in Barbara DeRubertis’ Animal Antics A to Z follows Nina Nandu as she copes with being new in town for the first day of school. The alliteration featured in the series helps to reinforce single consonant sounds, a skill which helps any beginning reader. Readers will enjoy the simple illustrations depicting first day of school activities and meeting new friends.
Polka-dot Fixes Kindergarten
By: Catherine Urdahl
Polka-dot, or Dorothy, assembles a fix-it kit for first day of school jitters with her Grandfather. Unfortunately, the combination of glue, tape and bandages do not help Polka-dot when meeting Liz, a stripe lover. Polka-dot faces new rules as well as her new adversary as paint spills and arguments abound. Eventually Liz and Polka-dot overcome their differences and learn the importance of working together. The illustrations do an excellent job of conveying the highs and lows of emotions for the kindergartens and will be easily relatable for any reader.
Ten Rules You Must Absolutely Not Break if You Want to Survive the School Bus
By: John Grandits
While the first ride on the school bus can cause anxiety, this book is great for those riders who have conquered these nerves. Young Kyle finds himself nervous for his first school bus ride so he turns to his older brother for comfort. That is his first mistake. Kyle envisions a ride amongst large grizzlies and lions. While Kyle breaks almost all of the ten rules, he fortunately finds himself with new friends and an easy ride. The illustrations are lively and bring great energy to the story. This is a great read for those bus riders with wild imaginations.
Remembering September 11, 2001: What We Know Now
By: Mara Miller
For older readers, this book offers a non-biased recount of the events surrounding September 11 and its aftermath. Facts are clear and accessible for readers and photographs, a timeline and a bibliography provide extra resources. A valuable source of information whether for school or just personal interest.