WHAT'S COLLEGE ABOUT ANYWAY?

A debut overview of university life written for very young students.

In an elementary classroom setting, Miss Sims begins a discussion about college, “where you can learn to be whatever you want to be when you grow up.” The students, when asked about their aspirations, eagerly share their lofty dreams, such as becoming a doctor, a teacher, or a pilot. The teacher then briefly explains some of the logistics of college—such as how to pay for it with scholarships, loans, and jobs—before delving into its exciting opportunities: meeting new people, volunteering in the community, participating in school organizations, and even studying abroad. At the end, she asks, “Who thinks they’ll go to college someday?” And the response is a resounding affirmative. Patterson does a fantastic job of presenting the most important and thrilling parts of the college experience, which will surely motivate young students to later attend. The noticeable diversity among the students (black, white, and Asian; male and female) sends a clear message that anyone can pursue higher education (“You can be the first in your family to go”). Also, Prajogo’s (Banana Chronicles: The Lost Medallion, 2017, etc.) vivid illustrations with a chalkboard-green theme capture the excitement of education and even show the kids as young adults.

An informative, exciting book about a truly valuable topic.