McAllister’s heartwarming story follows Digby’s second day of school, to which the young wombat is reluctant to return, as he fears he will forget everything learned on his first day. His reassuring mother cleverly tucks a dozen kisses into his pocket so that he may remove them whenever needed. And it works. With each kiss removed throughout the day, Digby feels comforted and braver to the point of being able to help another fearful classmate. On the third day, Digby feels secure enough to go to school without a pocket full of kisses. Enhanced by Hellard’s watercolor illustrations, school activities are exemplified throughout, and the autumn season is evident everywhere. Rich with details readers will enjoy studying, it includes a table full of acorns, dandelions, worms, flies, fish, apples, grapes, radishes and seeds for the animal’s lunches. A sweet take on an old theme. (Picture book. 3-6)
