Review: My First Day at School

Here is a welcomed book written with incredible insight about children’s first day at school by the talented and versatile Meredith Costain. It is told in turn through the point of view of four children starting school, revealing their concerns about the new space that they have entered, and the overwhelming amount of rules they have to remember. Bags go here, hats there. What about drink bottles, coats, books and lunchboxes? The list is endless. How will they recall everything?

My First Day at School carries reassuring messages for children starting school life. I wish it had been around for my grandchildren’s initiation into the education system. The mysterious, strange and frequently daunting experiences little ones face are presented in a subtle and humorous way, and balanced well with additional themes of adapting, finding confidence, and the joy and freedom found in play.

The illustrations by Michelle Mackintosh perfectly complement the text. The end pages depict the teacher and all the class, while the covers show children at play. This is the perfect beginning and ending to a valuable and well constructed book.

Title: My First Day at School
Author: Meredith Costain
Illustrator: Michelle Mackintosh
Publisher: Windy Hollow Books, $25.95 RRP
Publication Date: December 2013
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 97891922081254
For ages: 4+
Type: Picture Book