by David Shannon

Scholastic, $16.99, 32 pages

Do your kids have the back-to-school blues? Introduce them to someone who enjoys every day in the classroom. David, the lovable rascal, is back and on a new adventure. David Goes to School will be a fun addition to any personal or classroom library. Author David Shannon recalls a time when he was young and the only words he knew were his own name and “no.” So he created a series featuring a boy who hears “no” a lot, something kids can relate to. This time David wants to have fun at school, but sometimes it gets him into trouble with the teacher. David’s chewing gum is sticky and messy. Finger paints are fun to put on friends. Isn’t looking out the window at dinosaur shaped clouds next on the agenda? No David! Shannon’s illustrations are reminiscent of kids’ drawings. Boys and girls will laugh at David’s facial expressions and antics. Students must learn what appropriate school behavior is and this book reinforces those positive lessons. David even has a chance to redeem himself and earn a gold star from the teacher. Whether you are a fan of David’s comical adventures or new to the series, you’ll love this young boy’s charm.

Reviewed by Elizabeth Franklin