The first day at a new school can be hard, especially when you don’t know anyone. WHEN you MEET my FRIEND is a heartwarming ‘…book about making friends at school’. The story’s narrator encourages readers to reach out and be friendly to a new member of the class while taking us through the routine and activities that make up a school day.
The Story: A young boy enters the school gates alone but is soon swept into classroom routines and activities by a friendly, helpful little girl. She stays by his side as he joins in with circle time, drawing, snacks, gym, gardening, music and playtime. The day ends with story time then in an unexpected twist we discover the narrator’s identity…
Some children look forward to starting school, others may have worries or concerns. WHEN you MEET my FRIEND informs and reassure children about how the school day will work in an empathetic and supportive way. Mark Sperring portrays the school day as fun while introducing many of the activities that take place in a pre school / reception classroom and we love the way that he introduces the narrator at the end of the book.
Marisa Morea’s whimsical illustrations include a diverse set of characters and perfectly complement the gently rhyming text. We love the little details – the teacher’s green boots, the slightly over ripe bananas and the chalk patterns in the playground scene.
WHEN you MEET my FRIEND is a great book to stimulate conversation about the first day at a new school. The final double spread outlines the routines and activities that take place during the school day and can be used to encourage a child to ask questions and talk about any issues or worries that they may have before starting school.
Age Range: 3 +
Author: Mark Sperring / Illustrator: Marisa Morea
You can find more starting school book suggestions on Story Snug’s Pinterest board;
Thank you Little Tiger Books for sending WHEN you MEET my FRIEND. It would also appeal to readers of Monsters at School, The Colour Monster Goes To School and I Want A Friend.
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