Jane Godwin and Anna Walker have formed a very successful partnership with their two previous picture books, All Through the Year and Today We Have No Plans. Their new book explores five children starting school. As they prepare for their first day we see these five very different personalities excited and apprehensive. The big day arrives and five become twenty-one plus Miss Quick their teacher; so much to discover, so many people to get to know.

The book shows the stages in the school day and the myriad of things that the young students will more than likely experience. It also empathises with the strengths and vulnerabilities of young children making their way in a new and unfamiliar environment. With their trademark sensitivity and real understanding of the business of childhood, Jane and Anna have created a charming work of text and pictures that fit together like a hand in a glove. Highly recommended for ages 3 and up.

Alexa Dretzke