Miss Mingo and the First Day of School

Young animal enthusiasts won’t soon forget these unique students or Miss Mingo’s enthusiastic celebration of their diversity. — Publishers Weekly (starred review)

If there’s an elephant in the classroom — along with an alligator, a koala, a centipede, an octopus, and who knows what else — it must be Miss Mingo’s class on the first day of school! Miss Mingo, a flashy flamingo, starts off the year by inviting all creatures big and small to share something special about themselves. Did you know that Cricket hears with his legs, Snake smells with his tongue, and Frog enjoys eating his own skin? Visit this multi-species classroom for a nonfiction storybook filled with learning — and laughter."Harper’s watercolors deftly illustrate not only the showcased traits, but also the typical kindergarten classroom—floor mats, sink, snack table and bookshelves. Humorous details will encourage repeated readings. The classroom’s energy is contagious, and soon-to-be-Kindergarteners will be anxious to get to know the unique talents of their own new classmates. A cute combination of animal fact book and a lesson in kindergarten preparedness." —Kirkus Reviews

"Young animal enthusiasts won't soon forget these unique students or Miss Mingo's enthusiastic celebration of their diversity." —Publishers Weekly (starred review)JAMIE HARPER is the author-illustrator of ME TOO! and DON'T GROWN-UPS EVER HAVE FUN? Of MISS MINGO AND THE FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL, she says, "I like that this book is a blend of fiction and nonfiction, and that Miss Mingo is a funky, fun, contemporary teacher who just loves learning new things."