In Miss Mingo’s classroom, the first day is all about getting to know what makes each student unique. She starts with herself, telling them that she is pink because of the food she eats, and demonstrating how she eats it—upside down! Everyone stares at her in awe, and Hippo is more than a little smitten with his pretty teacher. Her students all jump in, sharing what makes them special, while their classmates offer funny, but kind, comments: “Check out that shoe collection,” Frog says about Centipede. A change in font separates the story from the sentence or two of facts about each animal. Miss Mingo’s menagerie is as varied as a human classroom, with everything from ocean and jungle animals, to insects and creatures from down under. 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. (Picture book. 4-7)
