Olu’s Teacher: A Story About Starting Preschool

A Black child narrator named Olu is anxious about starting preschool in this relatable work from Campbell and Mba. On the “big and scary” first day, “my legs are shaking, and my tummy feels all wobbly.” Despite parental reassurance about having existing friends in class, Olu is concerned about encountering the classroom’s teacher: “What do teachers LOOK LIKE?... What if my teacher has big, sharp teeth like a T. Rex? Or breathes fire like a dragon?” Repeating the worried refrain “Oh dear, oh dear, ohhhh... MACARONI!” Olu is pleasantly surprised, upon arrival at school, by the familiar-seeming face of the teacher, portrayed with brown skin. Engaging digital illustrations capture activities including circle time as Olu becomes accustomed to the classroom’s rhythm, and at day’s end observes, “I’ve realized something: my teacher doesn’t just look like someone I know. He looks like me!” Interspersed with moments of overcoming anxiety, it’s a heartwarming ode to teachers and the significance of representation. An author’s note concludes. Secondary characters are portrayed with various skin tones. Ages 3–7. (May)