Ready and Waiting for You

Readers are welcomed to their first day of school by a host of people eager to show them around. "Come in. Come in. / Come in through this door. / Are you new?" asks a little girl on the sidewalk, gesturing toward a school bus. The page folds out to show an open bus door and waving bus driver, the first of many friendly adults: "We're ready and waiting for you." The refrain repeats as Moreillon and Stock cheerfully work through a roster of trustworthy adult mentors who will guide newcomers, from crossing guards to the school secretary and principal, cafeteria workers, librarians, and teachers, all introducing the various activities kindergarteners can expect. The children in the book are equally welcoming, depicted with a casual multiculturalism that deepens the message of welcome-to-all. Bright, bold torn-paper illustrations capture the high energy and sensory stimulations of a kindergarten classroom (including musical notes, blocks, toys, wall decorations, and the colorfully clad children themselves) with simple, expressive lines and shapes that could easily translate into related craft projects. The concluding sense of belonging provides a cozy summary and will resonate with anxious ers: "Come in through this door... / We won't be a whole school till you do." claire e. gross