This is a school by John Schu. Illus. by Veronica Miller Jamison

An invitation to the very best of schools: inclusive, diverse, entertaining, fun and a place of learning, greets readers as they open the pages of this book. John Schu, a well known and promotional teacher librarian from Illinois pours all the positive aspects of going to school within these pages. And even a few negatives are thrown in to show that sometimes life does take a small turn: like dropping the fish bowl. But all is good - a solution is found and the fish survive. The first few pages are an introduction to kids going to the school, welcoming them as they step inside the building. Parents drop them off, and they sit on the floor listening to a teacher or librarian, or helper as they learn the routines of being in a classroom. Each line gives a positive aspect of learning: sharing, asking questions, helping, sharing, speak, learn, grow and heal, reminding the reader that the school is a community. Each few pages this line is repeated along with other words which delineates some aspect of school: celebrating, welcoming, growing, transforming, while the push is for children and staff to work together. Readers will love looking at the different things they can expect at school; a library, science experiments, music lessons, celebrations, art lessons, gardening and dressing up. All facets of school life are included, making the place more than just a building, but a humming communal space where all are welcome. Readers will enjoy looking at the different things being experienced in this school, and compare it with their own experience in Australian schools.

Themes: School, Inclusivity, Diversity.

Fran Knight