Written and illustrated by Jamie Harper Published by Candlewick Press
miss mingo and the first day of school
If there’s an elephant in the classroom — along with an alligator, a koala, a centipede, an octopus, and who knows what else — it must be Miss Mingo’s class on the first day of school! Miss Mingo, a flashy flamingo, starts off the year by inviting all creatures big and small to share something special about themselves. Did you know that Cricket hears with his legs, Snake smells with his tongue, and Frog enjoys eating his own skin? Visit this multi-species classroom for a nonfiction storybook filled with learning — and laughter.
PURCHASE THIS BOOK
★ “The funny commentary from these stereotypic class personalities (e.g., a nerdy frog and an alligator who serves as the class goody-goody) keeps the narrative moving and the facts coming. Young animal enthusiasts won't soon forget these unique students or Miss Mingo's enthusiastic celebration of their diversity.”
— Publisher’s Weekly (starred review)
“This book is a perfect mix of a first-day-of-school story and facts about the natural world. It will be enjoyed by students and teachers.”
— School Library Journal
PRAISE
“The classroom's energy is contagious, and soon-to-be-Kindergarteners will be anxious to get to know the unique talents of their own new classmates. A cute combination of animal fact book and a lesson in kindergarten preparedness.”
— Kirkus Reviews
Recipient of Bridgewater, CT school district First Day event. A reading enrichment program that encourages reading skills by giving each first grade student a new book on the first day of school, and introduces hundreds of volunteers to Bridgeport classrooms.
Activity Worksheets