Dad's First Day

In a story of emotional transference, a boy named Oliver is completely ready for school to begin but his kind, nebbishy father--with whom Oliver spent the summer playing, reading, and singing--grows nervous when the big day arrives. Wohnoutka's gouache paintings poke gentle fun at Daddy, and they'll elicit giggles as Oliver's father hides from his son as they prepare to leave the house, drives "very slowly" to school, and throws a tantrum that requires the teacher to carry the man out of the building. It's a straightforward and familiar story (with a reassuring conclusion), and it should leave new students with an extra jolt of confidence. Ages 4-8. (July)

PreS-Gr 1--Oliver and his dad had a fun summer--playing, singing, and reading together. When it comes time for school, Oliver is ready, but his dad grows nervous as the big day nears. As Oliver's dad complains his stomach hurts, hides from his son as they prepare to leave, and drives slowly to school, Oliver is the one reassuring his dad. This familiar story will hit home with kids and parents alike who have experienced first day of school jitters. As Oliver's dad proclaims, "I'm not ready for school!" The colorful gouache illustrations will elicit giggles from young readers as they imagine their parents behaving like Oliver's dad. VERDICT A charming addition to the popular first day of school section.--Sarah Polace, Cuyahoga Public Library System, OH