The Night Before First Grade

Plot: Penny is excited to start first grade with her best friend, Jenny, but they are placed in different classrooms, forcing them to make new friends.  Theme: It addresses back-to-school anxiety, friendship, and handling change, showing that new friendships can be just as rewarding.  Style: Written in verse, it mirrors the rhythm of Clement C. Moore's classic poem, making it fun and memorable. Illustrations: Deborah Zemke's cheerful illustrations complement the rhyming text.  Ending: The story concludes with a sweet surprise that makes the new situation even better. Target Audience: Ideal for pre-readers and early readers, particularly those entering kindergarten or first grade (ages 4-8).