MOLLY RIDES THE SCHOOL BUS

A maiden voyage on the school bus and all its attendant worries are the focus of this sympathetic tale. The bus ride to her first day of school has kindergartner Molly in a tizzy of apprehension. Concerns about sitting with the big kids loom large for the little girl. Comforted by the presence of her faithful teddy, Willy, Molly resolutely boards the bus. However, when she discovers Willy missing from her backpack, Molly is reluctant to ask the other riders for help. A friendly fourth-grader named Ruby comes to Willy’s—and Molly’s—rescue. Brillhart (When Daddy Took Us Camping, not reviewed, etc.) tells the tale from Molly’s perspective, neatly tapping into a young child’s anxiety over this momentous milestone. Through Molly’s experience, readers learn what to expect on the big yellow vehicle. Included at the end is a labeled diagram of the bus console as well as ten sensible safety instructions for young riders. The brightly colored illustrations are heavily detailed, with plenty of activity within the pictures for curious readers to pore over. A reassuring tale perfect for introducing the concept of riding the bus before the big day arrives. (Picture book. 4-8)