Barnaby Goes to School [With Special Reusable Envelope Enclosed]

I got a copy of this book and gave it to my daughter in May. She wasn't interested in it at all. Then, 3 weeks ago, we came back from vacation in Maine, and she searched through ALL of her books to find it (she's almost 3). Now, we have to read it every night. I don't know whether the ocean theme inspired her, but she really enjoys it. The story of a young boy bear not quite sure that he is ready for school is one that many kids can relate to. My little one had much separation anxiety when she first started. Now, she can read this book and look back on those times from a new perspective. The illustrations are charming - who wouldn't want to live on Nantucket? It's a very empowering message to give young kids. School, like other hings in life, isn't easy to get used to, but you can with the support of those around you. My only gripe is that the friend Barnaby makes is just like him, but female - a little diversity would have been welcome. Another gripe - we need more Barnaby books! The author needs to get some new ones done (easier said than done, I am sure ;-) ) and the older ones need to come back into print. Here's to my little one's newest friend - Barnaby!