By Jacquelyn Mitchard
I selected “Ready, Set, School” because I felt that it could apply really well to an elementary classroom experience. This book would probably be best for Kindergarteners or First Graders. It is a cute story about a raccoons fear of leaving his parents for the very first time. It approaches the topic of the first day of school and the fear that comes with leaving parents behind. Within the story there are also tidbits and fun facts about raccoons. I think that this book would be very beneficial in a teacher’s classroom library because it is a fun book full of lively pictures and the exciting tale of a young raccoon’s adventures, but educational as well.
Here is a Snippet of “Ready, Set, School:”
“Deep inside his trout-shaped sleeping bag, Rory was hiding from his parents. ‘Rory!’ his mama and papa called, as they seached every crevice in their hollow-tree home to find him. ‘Hey, little bandit! Time to go to Aunt Ramona’s house!’
Rory didn’t move a whisker, even when he heard his papa clambering up the branches to Rory’s room.
‘Rory!’ Papa called. ‘I know you’re up there somewhere! You’ll miss the apple and sardine pie your aunt is making just for you! The moon’s coming up! Your cousins are going to go play in the dark without you!’
As you know, raccoons stay awake all night. During the dark they work and play.
But Rory just crossed his paws and snuggled down deeper into his sleeping bag. His favorite goldfish pajamas were packed inside, along with his ‘Rocket Raccoon’ comic book. Everything was ready for Ror’s sleepover- except Rory!
Just then, he heard a soft voice say, ‘I see a little round lump in that sleeping bag.'”