Picture Book Review: Pearl Goes to Preschool by Julie Fortenberry

Image: Candlewick Press

Pearl Goes to Preschool by Julie Fortenberry. unpgd. Candlewick Press, July, 2020. 9781536207439. (Review of finished copy courtesy of publisher.) 

On page one in this adorable first-person narrative, teeny, tiny Pearl announces, "I'm a dancer, just like my mom." She dances every day and is usually the littlest dancer in class. Well, except for Violet, her mouse stuffie. Her mom broaches the subject of preschool, but Pearl and Violet are not interested. They already go to school. When Mom tells her that preschool is different and that she will learn to count, Pearl assures her mother she already knows how to count - first position, second position and third position! As the two get ready to attend a ballet, Pearl begins to ask questions about preschool. Later, she relays the information to Violet in the same reassuring tone. 

The creamy digitally rendered illustrations convey Pearl's close relationship with her mother and her love of ballet beautifully. Ballet is her safe space where she feels comfortable with older children. She needs to expand her circle to include peers and non-ballet activities. Her mother gently encourages and her modeling works, as seen when Pearl reassures Violet (and herself). 

There are plenty of books that deal with school anxiety. Pearl Goes to Preschool is a worthy addition to the collection.

Blog Tour Picture Book Review: It's Show and Tell, Dexter! by Lindsay Ward

It's Show and Tell, Dexter! by Lindsay Ward. unpgd. Dexter T. Rexter series #2. Two Lions/ Amazon Publishing, July 2018. 9781503901377.

Our favorite orange dino is back! Is he still prone to panic attacks? Dexter T. Rex is Jack's favorite toy and he has been training for "show and tell day" at Jack's school for weeks. Now that the big day is imminent, Dexter is starting to worry about his big day. He wants to make a big splash and be memorable, but doubts he's good enough.

Dexter reveals that his tummy hurts and his claws are clammy just thinking about failing Jack. Readers who might have anxiety issues themselves will relate to Dexter. All readers will cheer him on and reassure him that just being himself is really enough. Who doesn't worry about impressing at show and tell?

The palette is still bright yellows and blues, allowing Dexter's orange exuberance to pop. The cut paper collages and blue backgrounds are textured and eye-catching. Little details, such as a bunny nose and too-tight bunny suit, amuse. Since Dexter is speaking right to the reader, this invites energetic responses to Dexter's worries, making this a fun choice for story-time.  

Visit Lindsay Ward's website for more about Dexter and her other books. She has a coloring page too! There's also a cute trailer. 

Welcome back Dexter! Hope to see you again soon!