When you start school, there are lots of firsts - your first friend, first school trip, first sports day. As the days go by, all these firsts add up and soon you've finished your first 100 days at school. Once you've reached the milestone, though, you know you can achieve anything.
The first 100 days of school celebration is big in the United States, but the movement is growing in New Zealand schools. This book, written by Australian author Deborah Frenkel, is a nostalgic read to celebrate all the firsts that new entrants encounter in those first 100 days of being a school kid.
Frenkel guides younger readers through the sorts of things they might expect from school - from the blurry first day of school photos, to knowing nobody's names, to cake stalls and everything in between. The rhyming narrative celebrates growth and learning, with Frenkel not only helping children understand what may lie ahead of them, but reminding them to celebrate all they've achieved. The 100 school days celebration was originally started by an American teacher looking for ways to help her student understand the number 100; Frenkel incorporates elements of a counting book within her story too.
Illustrator Laura Stitzel nails the artwork. There's lots to see and discuss within the pages - from the different pen grips that grace the end pages to the babywearing dad to the intricate 100 day costumes. Stitzel uses vibrant colour to create artwork bursting with energy and joy.
While the story is a little niche, this will be a great book for any school to add to their collection. It also makes a nice read for children about to start the transition to school, as it focuses not only on their first 100 days but on the endless possibilities ahead of them.
Reviewer: Rebekah Lyell
Affirm Press