1, 2, 3, Off to School!

Pom, a light-skinned human child in a pointed cap, is so eager to attend the first day of kindergarten that they “packed a schoolbag, prepared a snack and put on new shoes.” Momo protests, “you don’t start school until next year!” but Pom has a plan to visit all the many various animal kindergartens to see what awaits. In Dubuc’s signature line drawings in soft colors, the classrooms teem with dozens of animal students and teachers taking part in all kinds of school activities. The mice attend class behind the garden wall, with rooms and furnishings made of recognizable objects such as thimbles and playing cards. The rabbits use their big ears to listen closely, while the frogs attend art class on lily pads. Big double-page spreads brim with details and vignettes to pore over, including text asides, in this cheery, inviting back-to-school fantasy. Ages 3–7. (May)