The Queen of Kindergarten (The King of Kindergarten #2)

PreS-K—The pair behind the wonderful King of Kindergarten is back with the story of a young girl who is starting kindergarten, and this book has more of a narrative than its predecessor. MJ goes to school with a clear sense of purpose to wear her crown and let her powers make the day better for everyone around her. MJ's mom sent her off to brighten every room, be caring and kind, and to be always helpful to others. As the day progresses, MJ has the opportunity to live out each of those statements and help her classmates. This title is outstanding not only for setting forth worthwhile goals for a child, but giving concrete examples of what those virtuous statements look like in the real world. Warm, loving illustrations accompany a text that is even better than the first title. VERDICT Highly recommended for all royalty entering kindergarten, as well as others who can see themselves bringing their special gifts to make their school, and world, better by their actions and positive spirit.—John Scott

As with Barnes' The King of Kindergarten, this story exudes joy, celebrating the kid who walks into the room and owns it with sunny confidence and genuine warmth. The art is rich with textures, creating an effusive sense of movement as geometric patterns in various objects and clothing contrast with dappled splotches and soft blending in the background. There's not a dull color in this palette of vivid tones, and dynamic figures convey the cheerful busyness of the classroom. A nod to Barnes' Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut is cleverly slipped in, making this a nice intro to Barnes' other stellar works - The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books