A whimsical and energetic book that kids will enjoy more and more with each reading.
School is starting and, even though she’s curious, the green frog is a little bit scared. And the frog isn’t the only one with jitters, as the gray squirrel and the yellow butterfly also work through some nerves. Frog packs her bag and hops off to school, looking forward to meeting the other students in Mr. Mole’s colorful classroom. Along the way, the red ladybug whirs around and worries about being late, the blue peacock grabs her favorite book but wonders if she will learn to read, and the white mouse is eager though she frets about fitting in. Once all the students arrive, it becomes clear that almost everyone is shy or anxious about the first day of school. With a welcoming presence, Mr. Mole warmly assures the students that all have something special to offer. Encouraging them to share their unique abilities and personalities, the classroom is soon filled with creativity and joy. The students make new friends and learn new things, happy that they put aside their fears and got to know each other.
A remarkably well-rounded picture book, Raven Howell’s story not only demonstrates basic lessons on colors, numbers, and spelling but tackles that common first-day-of-school fear. Each animal character is depicted with their own unique challenge, interest, or insecurity. As the creatures’ worries dissolve and their creative sides flourish, children will be reassured and emboldened to get ready for their own big first day. More than an approachable metaphor for diversity, this cheery story effectively addresses common anxieties in a way that promotes heartfelt conversation. Consistent with each animal, their introductions include fun-to-read-aloud expressions that add brightness to the story, and the uncomplicated illustrations offer just enough detail to engage young readers without distraction. But the real magic happens as the students begin collaborating in the classroom. When everyone finally comes together, the pages burst with color and life, building excitement for the opportunities children have ahead of them in their own school days. Relatable concerns are addressed in a whimsical and energetic book that kids will enjoy more and more with each reading. Delightfully simple and simply delightful, A Colorful Beginning is a gentle tool to help little ones conquer their fears and look forward to “a very happy and colorful first day of school”.
