Publishers Weekly
08/01/2022
In this companion to the collaborators’ The King of Kindergarten, a Black girl named MJ Malone is given a tiara by her Momma and instructed in the ways of kindergarten sovereignty: “First, us queens brighten up every room we enter. Second, us queens are caring and kind. And third, the good ones are always helpful to others,” Barnes writes. A quick study, MJ takes on the “brightening” role of window monitor (“It’ll be my job to open up the blinds and let the sunlight in”), comforts a homesick classmate, and helps another put away blocks. Brantley-Newton embellishes inclusive classroom scenes with swirls and bubbles of cheery color, limning kindergarten as a happy, busy place from day one, with plenty of opportunities to shine (“Did I tell you how good I am at soccer? Don’t let the tiara fool ya”). Making MJ the narrator underscores her confidence, maturity, and sense of belonging, helping the protagonist—and readers—feel that she’s got this. Ages 3–5. (May)
From the Publisher
"Brantley-Newton brings the fun of King of Kindergarten back in this companion book’s vibrant illustrations and racially diverse characters. MJ’s kindness and self-assuredness set a wonderful example for readers, who may also be preparing to expand their worlds, whether attending school or participating in a new group activity. A great choice for combating first-day jitters and building confidence." —Booklist
“From the very first page, it’s clear that young MJ Malone is ready to face the world—and school. . . . Barnes infuses each page with humor and a sense of grace as the immensely likable MJ makes the most of her first day. Barnes’ prose is entertaining and heartwarming, while Brantley-Newton’s vivid and playful artwork will be easily recognizable for anyone who’s seen her work. The illustrator adds verve to the bold young heroine’s character—from the colorful barrettes to the textured appearance of her adorable denim jumper, the girl has style and substance. MJ Malone embodies the can-do spirit every parent hopes to spark in their own children, though even shy kindergarteners will gladly find a friend in her. . . . Just the thing to get uncertain youngsters jazzed for a first day—at school or anywhere.”—Kirkus Reviews
“As with Barnes’ The King of Kindergarten, this story exudes joy, celebrating the kid who walks into the room and owns it with sunny confidence and genuine warmth. The art is rich with textures, creating an effusive sense of movement as geometric patterns in various objects and clothing contrast with dappled splotches and soft blending in the background. There’s not a dull color in this palette of vivid tones, and dynamic figures convey the cheerful busyness of the classroom. A nod to Barnes’ Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut is cleverly slipped in, making this a nice intro to Barnes’ other stellar works.” —The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
"The pair behind the wonderful King of Kindergarten is back with the story of a young girl who is starting kindergarten. . . . MJ goes to school with a clear sense ofpurpose to wear her crown and let her powers make the day better for everyone around her. . . . This title is outstanding not only for setting forth worthwhile goals for a child, but giving concrete examples of what those virtuous statements look like in the real world. Warm, loving illustrations accompanya text that is even better than the first title. Highly recommended for all royalty entering kindergarten, as well as others who can see themselves bringing their special gifts to make their school, and world, better by their actions and positive spirit." —School Library Journal
“This companion to The King of Kindergarten stars MJ Malone, all ready to go in her first-day-of-school outfit, with rainbow-colored hair bands on freshly done braids, and her mom’s sparkly tiara. . . . According to MJ’s conversational first-person text, queenly behaviors include: kindness, caring, and helpfulness, all traits that she displays throughout the school day. . . . Friendly, colorful, textured illustrations. . . . There’s no royal drama; from beginning to end, this matter-of-factly reassuring first-day-of-kindergarten story depicts a supportive family, a self-confident protagonist, an expert teacher, and new friends—all set to have a great school year.” —Horn Book
"Brantley-Newton embellishes inclusive classroom scenes with swirls and bubbles of cheery color, limning kindergarten as a happy, busy place from day one, with plenty of opportunities to shine. Making MJ the narrator underscores her confidence, maturity, and sense of belonging, helping the protagonist—and readers—feel that she’s got this." —Publishers Weekly
School Library Journal
08/01/2022
PreS-K—Highly recommended for all royalty entering kindergarten, as well as others who can see themselves bringing their special gifts to make their school, and world, better by their actions and positive spirit.
Kirkus Reviews
2022-04-27
Barnes and Brantley-Newton team up for a follow-up to The King of Kindergarten (2019).
From the very first page, it’s clear that young MJ Malone is ready to face the world—and school. Once Mom bestows her with a glittery tiara and dubs her the queen of kindergarten, MJ is determined to fulfill her duties—brighten up every room she enters, treat others with kindness, and offer a helping hand. Barnes infuses each page with humor and a sense of grace as the immensely likable MJ makes the most of her first day. Barnes’ prose is entertaining and heartwarming, while Brantley-Newton’s vivid and playful artwork will be easily recognizable for anyone who’s seen her work (Grandma’s Purse, 2018; Becoming Vanessa, 2021). The illustrator adds verve to the bold young heroine’s character—from the colorful barrettes to the textured appearance of her adorable denim jumper, the girl has style and substance. MJ Malone embodies the can-do spirit every parent hopes to spark in their own children, though even shy kindergarteners will gladly find a friend in her. MJ and her family are Black; her classroom is diverse. (This book was reviewed digitally.)
Just the thing to get uncertain youngsters jazzed for a first day—at school or anywhere. (Picture book. 4-6)
