Queen of the Classroom

Starting nursery is a milestone in every child’s life but little MJ is absolutely ready for it. Her mother has washed and braided her hair and it looks so good, ‘But she always helps me look nice. Yes, she does.’ Mum has the finishing touch too: a sparkly tiara, that she wore on her first day at school. ‘But today’, she says to her little daughter, ‘You will become Queen of the Classroom.’ As Queen, MJ will brighten up every room, be caring and kind, and helpful to others. As we follow little MJ through her day, we see her doing all those things. It’s an absolutely lovely introduction to school and demonstrates perfectly too how parents can set their children up to be happy, confident and secure, all you really need to succeed in school and life. The illustrations are full of warmth and extra detail, and Barnes’ prose has a cadence to it that will make the repeated readings that are sure to be demanded a pleasure. This is a companion to King of the Classroom, also recommended by Books for Keeps, and equally joyful and empowering. These books are must haves for anyone with a child about to start school.

Read our Q&A interview with author Derrick Barnes.