Affirm Press
June 2024
AUD RRP $22.99
ISBN 9781922930385
Thirty years ago when I was first teaching a Year 1 class (actually it was a 1/2/3) Qld preschool was optional, and so Year 1 was the official first year of school. The Smalls diligently coloured a new square each day on their 100 page glued into their maths scrapbook, and we chorus-counted on our big 100s board.
It was not only a daily ritual but part of their learning to count sequentially as well as marking time passing. When the 100th day arrived we celebrated with games and fun activities, but it seems that not everybody did the same, as I was to find out.
Now, as Prep is de rigeur as part of formal schooling, the 100 Days celebrations have taken on a greater focus for those smallest of our learners, and it’s terrific to have a special new book which will, I have no doubt, feature in many forthcoming celebrations (depending on your state) in the coming weeks.
School brings many firsts, and this is a delightful look at one little person’s journey through those initial 100 days with new activities, new friends and new experiences.
Deborah Frenkel has captured moments of that first school year which cross-over no matter which system or state the school, and Laura Stitzel’s illustrations are vibrant and expressive, with the joy of little people loving their learning leaping off each page.(
Ironically now, in my last few schools the Year 12s also count down their last 100 days- that would be a different book altogether!!) You and your Smalls will get lots of smiles out of this one, just as I did in reading it, and recalling some of the fun 100 days celebrations in my last very special schools. A big 4 👴👴👴👴 rating for this one!
Just So Stories 
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