Back to School! (The Secret Life of Squirrels)

Rose, whose staged squirrel photographs first gained popularity through social media, offers her fourth outing to feature furry backyard visitors. Mr. Peanuts, a school bus driver, and Rosie, a teacher, are preparing for the school year. In Rosie's classroom, the two unpack books, hang a welcome banner, post classroom rules, and set up the art corner. The story's allure lies in the squirrels' seemingly natural presence within the carefully constructed miniature scenes--an effect achieved, an appended note explains, "by hiding peanuts in and around the props." Ages 4-8. (July)

PreS-Gr 1--Fans of the previous books in the series may once again follow the busy antics of the squirrels through the author's inventive photography, as the squirrels investigate and play with tiny objects--a new set featuring the Sunnywood Education Center, a yellow school bus, and a "Squirrel X-ing" zone. Young readers watch as Rosie, Mr. Peanuts, Mr. Chipper, and their friends prepare for the first day of school. Photo images feature squirrels as they fill carts to buy school supplies, unpack books, set up a classroom, organize and clean up craft supplies, try out music instruments, test out the playground, check out the bus route, and prepare supplies for a garden or first aid kit. VERDICT This is a tale of busy bushy-tails, an invitation to conversation about the start of the school year or first experiences, and a suggested general purchase for libraries with young animal lovers.--Mary Elam, Learning Media Services, Plano ISD, TX