Lizzie and the Last Day of School

PreS-Gr 1–A book for those children and teachers who enjoy school and don’t want it to end. Lizzie and her first grade teacher, Miss G., have enjoyed reading and math, finding out about gardening, healthy eating, and exercise. Miss G. makes learning so much fun that when Lizzie returns home each day, she shares what she’s learned with her baby sister Lulu. On the last day of school, Miss G. sits alone, feeling sad in her classroom. She does not party or relax like the other teachers. But both student and teacher are able to continue to teach and learn all summer because they become involved in the same summer school. The lessons are to be held outside and consist of kite flying, stories and snacks under the shade of a tree, and nature walks with new friends. McLeod’s cheerful illustrations are set in lively bustling classrooms where even lost teeth are important. VERDICT An engaging selection for those eager to learn students.

Lizzie loved nursery school. Kindergarten was even better. When fall comes, she is ready for real school, first grade with Miss G., a new teacher who encourages her students throughout the year and makes every day fun. But all too soon, it’s the last day of school. While most kids are overjoyed, Lizzie is overwhelmed with sadness. She finds a kindred spirit in Miss G., but a last-minute plot twist gives them both something to cheer about after all. As a picture-book writer, Noble is best known for the classic The Day Jimmy’s Boa Ate the Wash (1980). In her latest, she tells a good story, bolstered with details that make Lizzie’s thoughts and emotions believable. The scene where Lizzie returns to school to hug Miss G. good-bye is unexpectedly poignant. Colorful artwork that looks to be done in pencil and watercolors illustrates the settings, the characters, and their activities with finesse. An appealing picture book for reading aloud.

A girl’s love for school is more than evident in this latest from Noble.Lizzie loved everything about school in preschool and kindergarten, from the smell of the books to her school supplies. She even spent all summer playing school with her baby sister, Lulu. Now it’s her “first year of school.” She can’t wait for a whole year of school! The seasons turn, and Lizzie’s class does all sorts of things: read books, move to music, plant a garden. Lizzie shares each thing with Lulu. But then comes the day when books are collected, field-day events take place, and desks are cleaned out. Lizzie feels cheated of several months of school. But she’s not the only one—her first-year teacher is just as sad. Luckily, though, Miss G.‘s picked to teach summer school, and Lizzie joins her to make and fly kites, take nature walks, visit a local farm and take swimming lessons. While summer school here sounds more like camp, Noble clearly gets across Lizzie’s love of school. McLeod’s round-headed, rosy-cheeked characters share their every emotion, especially Lizzie and Miss G. on the final day. Many may get the wrong impression about summer school from this offering, but here’s hoping Lizzie’s joy in school is infectious. (Picture book. 5-7)