Clover Kitty Goes to Kittygarten

PreS-Gr 1--Clover Kitty is not sure she is ready for kittygarten, so when she finds herself in Ms. Snappytail's classroom filled with lots of other kittens, she panics. It is noisy and crowded. After a day of many activities, including singing and naptime chaos, Clover has had enough! Although Oliver, a fluffy brown kitten, tries to be her friend and include her in activities, everything is all overwhelming for Clover. She spits, bites, and throws a fit. Kittygarten is not for her. For the next few days, she feigns a cold and Mama Kitty allows her to stay home, where it is peaceful and soothing. Finally, on Friday, Clover decides she may be ready for kittygarten after all. Armed with a backpack full of survival gear, she is ready to join the class and even begins to find some enjoyment in school. Young readers will identify with Clover's feelings about starting school or any new adventure. Pair with classic first day of school titles such as Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes or The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn. The watercolor illustrations have soft, inviting colors. VERDICT A perfect story to share at the beginning of the school year.--Martha Rico, Yselta ISD, TX

On opening day, a calm-loving kitten finds a lot to dislike about kittygarten: blocks clatter when they tumble, the teacher's hand bell sounds like a gong, and another kitty's tail invades her "purrrrrrsonal space!" Though Oliver, a kind classmate, reaches out to her reassuringly, Clover storms out the door at day's end, announcing, "I quit!" In a departure from most adjusting-to-school tales, she stands her ground for quite some time. Her mother lets her stay home for three days, resting and playing quietly, and covers for her when Oliver tries to visit. Clover finally has the anticipated change of heart, wondering what it would be like to have a friend to play with, but she also preps smartly (earmuffs, sunglasses) for the classroom's sensory barrage, and capably sets boundaries where she needs them. Salas shapes a read-aloud that will spark conversation with first-timers who are sensitive to stimulus, while Nakata humorously conveys the resolute feline's emotions in expressive watercolor images. Ages 4-6. (Aug.)

"Young readers will identify with Clover's feelings about starting school or any new adventure...The watercolor illustrations have soft, inviting colors. A perfect story to share at the beginning of the school year." —School Library Journal

"Salas shapes a read-aloud that will spark conversation with first-timers who are sensitive to stimulus, while Nakata humorously conveys the resolute feline's emotions in expressive watercolor images." —Publishers Weekly

"Sweet and soft watercolor illustrations show clothed kittens going through a typical (human) school day, with plenty of details and scenarios for young children to relate to. Clover's experiences and school 'armor' helpfully explain the ups and downs of the first day of school or of going to school for the first time. A reassuring read to ward off the jitters." —Booklist