Mouse's First Day of School

When it comes to picking a hero for a children’s book, you can never go wrong with mice. From Mickey to Maisy to just about every Kevin Henkes book ever made, plucky rodents have made for incredibly popular protagonists. To that proud tradition comes the simply-named Mouse of Mouse’s First Day of School. After stowing away in a backpack, Mouse discovers all the wonders waiting at what appears to be a preschool or kindergarten. As Mouse explores each new station (blocks, books, pots and pans, plants, and more) with wonder and enthusiasm, author Lauren Thompson includes catchy phrases that kids will love repeating out loud. "Squiggle, scribble, dot crayons!" reads one page. "Feathery, floppy, boppy hats!" reads another. Buket Erdogan’s bright and simple pastel illustrations on textured backgrounds feature a happy Mouse having a great time encountering objects that kids recognize from their home, day care, or school. (Ages 2 to 6) --John Moe