Not This Bear: A First Day of School Story

Reviewed by: Kathy George - Gray Public Library, Gray, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: October 12, 2015

Review

there are lots of "first day of school" books but this is one that is a keeper. As all books on this subject usually start, little bear doesn't want to leave mom. She assures him that "all bears love school" to which his response is "not this bear." this becomes the call and response through the entire story. and as we all know school is not that terrifying and all the characters survive it beautifully. Capucilli's text captures little bear's fears and concerns but as he navigates the day , his mom's words and actions give him that little push to try what is at hand. Lorna Hussey's illustrations are soft, cuddly. She is able to capture the emotions little bear experiences as his day progresses. this is a nice addition to one of those rights of passage our children experience.

Overall Book Score: very good